2026 FIFA World Cup to Introduce Hydration Breaks

Next year’s FIFA World Cup promises some changes, particularly with the introduction of “hydration breaks.”

FIFA announced the decision over the weekend, emphasizing that it aims to “prioritize player welfare” during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. In this setup, the referee will pause the game at the 22nd minute of each half, allowing a three-minute break for players to rehydrate.

This approach is similar to what was implemented at this year’s Club World Cup, where games in the U.S. featured breaks every 30 minutes in each half. However, FIFA noted that the 2026 version would be a “streamlined and simplified version” compared to previous competitions like the 2025 Club World Cup, without any specific weather or temperature conditions affecting it. So, players can expect these breaks in every match, regardless of whether they’re indoors or outdoors, to ensure equal circumstances for all teams.

Last year, hydration breaks were only used in matches held under extreme heat.

“There will be a three-minute hydration break for each match, irrespective of the venue or temperature,” stated FIFA official Manolo Zubirria. This will be the case for both halves of the game.

Yet, there’s more to these hydration breaks than meets the eye.

Zubirria made the announcement during the World Broadcasters Meeting in Washington, D.C., following the World Draw on Friday. As reported by ESPN, the decision was shaped “in consultation with coaches and broadcasters.”

This new format will allow broadcasters to place commercials at convenient times during the game, rather than relying on picture-in-picture formats or overlays.

After all, broadcast rights certainly don’t come cheap.

Moreover, these mandatory hydration breaks will turn each match into a four-quarter game, giving teams a chance to strategize during the brief pauses.