World Cup 2026 Imposes 3-Minute Hydration Breaks in All 104 Matches as Heat Debate Grows
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 15
World Cup 2026 Imposes 3-Minute Hydration Breaks in All 104 Matches as Heat Debate Grows
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 15
Summary
Three-minute hydration breaks are now mandatory around the 22nd minute of each half in all 104 World Cup matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
FIFA introduced the stoppages to protect players from extreme heat and humidity, but the rule also applies in climate-controlled stadiums, drawing criticism that some breaks are unnecessary.
Opening games have already shown tactical effects: Brazil equalised soon after a break against Morocco, while Canada, Scotland and Australia also scored shortly after stoppages.
The interruptions have also been blamed for momentum swings against teams such as Curacao, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, prompting coaches and former players to call them "momentum breaks."
Critics including Mauricio Pochettino and Ian Wright say the pauses can disrupt play and aid broadcasters, while others such as Spain coach Luis de la Fuente back them as a player-welfare measure.