Europa League match between Salzburg and Pafos temporarily suspended due to heavy rain

On August 6, 2026, the third qualifying round match of the Europa League between FC Salzburg and Pafos FC in Austria was temporarily suspended due to extreme weather conditions. The match, taking place at the Red Bull Arena, experienced heavy rainfall that left the pitch waterlogged, making it impossible for the ball to move properly on the grass.

The Polish referee, Damian Sylwestrzak, officially halted proceedings between the 14th and 15th minute of play, sending both teams to the dressing rooms. The decision was made to protect the players and ensure the integrity of the game, as the drainage system struggled to cope with the intensity of the storm.

Officials and the referee staff planned to re-evaluate the conditions 30 minutes after the stoppage to determine if the match could safely resume. No final decision regarding a postponement to a later date was reported at the time of the initial interruption, as organizers monitored the weather in hopes of clearing the pitch for continued play.