London (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – January 10, 2026 – Storm Goretti’s lingering effects have prompted further postponements in the FA Cup third round and EFL fixtures beyond the initial Salford City vs Swindon Town cancellation. Travel warnings persist for remaining matches, including Wolves v Shrewsbury Town, amid rail disruptions and ice alerts. Metro Sport provided live updates on the growing list of affected games.
Salford City confirmed the postponement of their FA Cup third round clash with Swindon Town due to an unplayable frozen pitch despite thawing attempts. The Football Association supported the call after joint inspections prioritised supporter safety.
Storm Goretti Unleashes Widespread Severe Weather
Met Office amber and yellow warnings remain active for snow, ice, and winds exceeding 70 mph in key regions. Power cuts affected thousands, with schools shuttered and flights grounded nationwide. The storm’s rapid intensification created hazardous conditions from Cornwall to Scotland.
As disruptions mounted, Metro Sport tracked the latest football cancellations. Metro Sport (@Metro_Sport) said in X post,
“Football postponed latest: FA Cup and EFL games off due to Storm Goretti.”
Football postponed latest: FA Cup and EFL games off due to Storm Goretti https://t.co/n7NtNykjnp
— Metro Sport (@Metro_Sport) January 10, 2026
Ongoing Rail and Transport Disruptions
Great Western Railway services to Cornwall halted for debris removal, while West Midlands lines advised caution for FA Cup travel. Roads posed risks from fallen trees and black ice, prompting RAC travel advisories. Wolves urged fans to plan ahead for their Shrewsbury fixture.
Expanding List of Postponed Football Matches
Additional FA Cup third round games joined the cancellation list, with EFL ties also impacted by frozen pitches and unsafe travel. Kidderminster Harriers’ match fell earlier, and more assessments loomed for MK Dons and Port Vale clashes. FA rules enable swift decisions to notify travelling parties early.
Public reactions varied amid reports of regional weather differences. Ian (@herrbartlett1), a civil engineer and sports enthusiast, questioned the storm’s severity in his locality. Ian (@herrbartlett1) said in X post,
“What is this Storm Goretti everyone is whinging about?(accompanied by a photo implying clear weather in their area, adding ironic context to the widespread disruption warnings for travel and matches).”
What is this Storm Goretti everyone is whinging about?🌞 pic.twitter.com/fnwlgcqjEM
— Ian 🏴🇬🇧 (@herrbartlett1) January 10, 2026
Impacts Extend to Scottish and EFL Leagues
Scotland saw prolonged snow-related cancellations, mirroring English disruptions. Officials across leagues emphasised safety protocols amid the cold snap. UK Health Security Agency extended health alerts through midweek.
Train operators continued urging verification of services, with no replacements in high-risk zones. National Grid worked to restore power, though recovery stretched into the weekend. Storm Goretti highlighted vulnerabilities in winter scheduling for cup competitions. Met Office forecasts predicted easing conditions by Sunday, potentially allowing rescheduling.
