The organizers of the Hundred matches have announced that the floodlights will remain on during the four fixtures scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2026. This decision aims to counteract the darkness caused by a partial solar eclipse, which will obscure up to 90% of the sun between 6:17 PM and 8:06 PM, peaking just after 7:00 PM.

A rare phenomenon visible in Europe

This partial solar eclipse, the first in 27 years, will be visible across Europe, with some regions even experiencing a total eclipse as the sun, moon, and Earth align. The organizers note that the temporary darkness will lead to a drop in brightness, a fall in temperatures, and a possible shift in wind direction. After a few minutes, the sun will reappear, and natural light will return.

Four Hundred matches affected

Four Hundred matches are set for Wednesday, all broadcast live on Sky Sports. The women’s fireworks between Welsh Fire and London Spirit kicks off at 11:30 AM in Cardiff, followed by the men’s match at 3:00 PM. At Edgbaston, Birmingham Phoenix will host MI London at 3:00 PM, before the men’s clash at 6:30 PM. To prepare for the eclipse, organizers will keep the floodlights on for the duration of all four matches and will broadcast safety messages to spectators. Experts remind viewers that only certified solar eclipse glasses should be used to safely observe the phenomenon.

Kempton Racing maintains its races under floodlights

Kempton Racing Circuit, which is equipped with floodlights, will also host races on Wednesday during the eclipse. The event is expected between 7:02 PM and 7:16 PM, with races scheduled for 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Barney Clifford, the track manager, explained: “The last eclipse was nearly 30 years ago—I wasn’t even at Kempton then. I remember it, but there were no floodlights back then! I’ll turn them on well before the expected time. We don’t know exactly how much of the sun will be obscured or for which race, so I’d rather be safe than sorry.”