Match Postponement Due to Severe Weather
The highly anticipated matchup between Olympique de Marseille (OM) and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has been postponed due to severe weather conditions expected in Marseille. Originally scheduled for Sunday, September 21, at 20:45, the match will now take place on Monday at 20:00, as reported by the Ligue de football professionnel (LFP).
Official Announcement
The decision was made shortly before the match was set to kick off, following warnings from local authorities regarding the likelihood of heavy rainfall and urban flooding. Georges-François Leclerc, the prefect of Bouches-du-Rhône, stated that “the match is postponed due to potential heavy precipitation, which could lead to significant urban runoff near the Stade Vélodrome, which seats 65,000 spectators.”
Regulations on Match Postponement
According to Article 548 of the LFP’s competition regulations, if a match is postponed due to weather conditions before kickoff, it will be rescheduled for the next day at a time determined by LFP’s services. This rule ensures that fans and teams have clarity on match proceedings amid unforeseen circumstances.
Impact on Players and Fans
The decision to postpone comes at a time when the football community is buzzing not just about the match but also about the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, taking place that same evening at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Many PSG players were expected to attend the prestigious event, adding more complexity to the scheduling conflicts.
Weather Warnings for the Region
The prefect’s announcement was accompanied by a weather advisory indicating an orange alert for rain and thunderstorms in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. Forecasts suggest rainfall amounts may reach 70 to 90 mm, with some areas potentially experiencing up to 120 mm within a few hours, making safe travel and attendance challenging for fans planning to make their way to the stadium.
Looking Ahead
As fans await the rescheduled match, anticipation remains high for what promises to be an exciting clash in Ligue 1. The rivalry between OM and PSG has always been intense, and both teams will be eager to secure valuable points in the league standings. Monday’s match will not only provide fans with thrilling football but also an opportunity to witness the skill and talent of some of the best players in the sport.
Conclusion
The postponement of the OM-PSG match is a reminder of how unpredictable weather can affect sporting events. As we move towards the match on Monday, fans are encouraged to keep track of updates from the LFP and to prioritize their safety while heading to the stadium. Despite the delay, the excitement for one of France’s biggest football encounters continues to build.
