2026 World Cup Introduces Three-Minute Hydration Breaks Each Half

Bassyonni

ago 60 minutes

2026 World Cup Introduces Three-Minute Hydration Breaks Each Half

FIFA has announced that the 2026 World Cup will feature a significant change: each match will include a three-minute hydration break in the middle of each half. This decision, made during recent meetings with coaches and broadcasters, aims to prioritize player safety.

Implementation of Hydration Breaks

The hydration breaks will essentially divide each half of a soccer match into quarters, similar to formats seen in basketball or American football. This will be the first time such breaks have been mandated at a World Cup, occurring approximately 22 minutes into each half regardless of the weather conditions. FIFA stated, “There will be no weather or temperature condition in place, with the breaks being called by the referee in all games.”

Impact on Game Dynamics

While the clock will not stop during these hydration breaks, three minutes will be added as stoppage time at the end of each half. This pause will give coaches an opportunity to communicate with players and refine their strategies. FIFA’s 2026 World Cup Chief Tournament Officer, Manolo Zubiria, confirmed that the breaks would last from whistle to whistle.

Player Welfare Concerns

The decision to introduce hydration breaks responds to increased awareness of player welfare in extreme heat conditions. Concerns heightened during the Club World Cup last summer, when several matches were played in sweltering temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For the 2026 World Cup, FIFA has scheduled most afternoon games in air-conditioned stadiums or cooler cities to alleviate these concerns.

Feedback from Player Advocates

While FIFA’s new policy is a step forward for player safety, it does not fully align with the suggestions of FIFPRO, the international federation representing players’ unions. During discussions, FIFPRO’s medical director, Vincent Gouttebarge, expressed the need for more frequent but shorter breaks instead of just one mid-half.

Broadcasting Opportunities

These hydration breaks could also create additional opportunities for broadcasters to include commercials during matches. FIFA plans three separate opening ceremonies for the tournament, scheduled to commence on June 11, featuring 104 matches over 39 days and culminating in the final on July 19.