Germany vs. Denmark Match Halted by Thunderstorm at Euro 2024

On June 29, 2024, the Euro 2024 last-16 match between Germany and Denmark was suspended due to a severe thunderstorm in Dortmund. English referee Michael Oliver halted the game in the 35th minute when lightning, thunder, and torrential rain swept over BVB Stadion. At that point, the score was 0-0.

The players were initially taken to the side of the pitch before being sent to their dressing rooms for safety. After a 25-minute delay, during which the weather conditions improved, the players conducted a brief warm-up and the game resumed.

The situation at kickoff was already unfavorable, with grey skies and high humidity suggesting a storm. As the rain intensified, many fans, especially in the stadium’s south end, sought shelter but some remained, using black, yellow, and red placards to show their support.

The storm also led to the cancellation of two fan zone events in Dortmund, notably affecting the Westfalenpark where around 13,000 fans had gathered. They were asked to leave about half an hour into the game.

This recall bears similarities to a group stage match between France and Ukraine at Euro 2012, which was delayed by almost an hour due to thunderstorms.