Friday, 9 January 2026 — The FA Cup third-round tie between Derby County and Leeds United is facing uncertainty after an amber weather warning was issued for Derbyshire amid Storm Goretti, raising safety concerns for fans and players ahead of Sunday’s scheduled fixture.
An amber Met Office weather warning — indicating severe weather with the potential to disrupt travel and pose risks to safety — is in force for Derbyshire as heavy snow and hazardous travel conditions are expected through Friday. Authorities have urged people to avoid non-essential travel as snow accumulates and ice forms on roads.
The Leeds United vs Derby County match, set for Sunday afternoon at Pride Park Stadium, is still scheduled to go ahead at this stage, but the weather remains volatile and conditions will be monitored closely. Club officials, match organisers and the Football Association will assess pitches and transport conditions with a final decision expected closer to kickoff.
Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke has reiterated his focus on advancing in the FA Cup while also managing a difficult Premier League schedule, noting the challenge of a trip to Derbyshire this weekend.
Match officials have been appointed for the game, with Anthony Taylor set to referee the third-round tie.
Weather Context
The amber warning, part of a wider set of National Severe Weather Warnings issued by the Met Office due to Storm Goretti, highlights the potential for significant snowfall and icy surfaces that could affect large parts of central and northern England, including Derbyshire. Snow accumulations and difficult travel conditions are expected to persist into the weekend, although precise impacts on Sunday’s fixture are still uncertain.
Across the UK, Storm Goretti has already caused widespread disruption, including suspended rail services, flight cancellations and school closures, as well as postponed football matches in lower leagues due to frozen pitches.
Supporter Advice
Fans planning to travel to Pride Park are urged to keep up with official club communications and local weather reports before setting out. With travel conditions potentially deteriorating, supporters are advised to allow extra time, prepare for delays, and check pitch inspection news from both clubs and governing bodies as Sunday approaches.
At the time of writing, no official postponement has been confirmed. A final decision will likely come after the standard pre-match inspections and safety assessments on match day.
