FIFA has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature mandatory three-minute hydration breaks at the 22-minute mark of each half in every match.
The decision, made following consultations with coaches, broadcasters, and FIFA’s medical team, is designed to prioritise player welfare, especially given the high temperatures and long travel distances expected in some host cities.
Unlike the previous “cooling breaks,” which were only implemented under extreme weather conditions, these hydration pauses will occur in every game, regardless of conditions.
While the breaks are intended to help players maintain hydration and perform safely, they also provide coaches with regular opportunities to regroup, adjust tactics, and communicate with players, potentially influencing the flow and strategy of matches.
FIFA said the measure reflects a growing emphasis on health, safety, and performance management in modern football, balancing the demands of high-level competition with player wellbeing.
