FIFA has announced three-minute hydration breaks in each half of every game at the 2026 World Cup, regardless of weather conditions. The pauses will occur around the 22-minute mark to prioritize player safety and provide recovery time. This change aims to make schedules more predictable for broadcasters while addressing heat risks at the tournament.
FIFA confirmed on December 8, 2025, a new regulation for the 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Referees will halt play approximately 22 minutes into each half for a structured three-minute window, allowing players to hydrate and recover. This applies universally to all fixtures, irrespective of temperature, host nation, or stadium features like roofs or air conditioning.
The initiative stems from player welfare concerns, particularly after heat and humidity impacted matches at recent tournaments. FIFA described it as a "streamlined and simplified version" of prior cooling break protocols, which previously activated after 30 minutes only when temperatures exceeded 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 degrees Fahrenheit) on the wet bulb global temperature system. At the Club World Cup in the US, FIFA had already lowered thresholds for breaks and added more water and towels pitchside.
Historically, heat has posed challenges at major events, including the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where a court mandated mandatory breaks or fines. A September 2025 report by Football for the Future, Common Goal, and Jupiter Intelligence highlighted that 10 of the 16 venues face very high risks of extreme heat stress.
FIFA's chief tournament officer for 2026, Manolo Zubiria, noted the announcement followed discussions with broadcasters, potentially benefiting ad scheduling by dividing games into four "quarters." He added flexibility for referees: "This will be addressed on the spot with the referee," Zubiria said, regarding stoppages near the 22-minute mark.
The rule could alter match rhythm but underscores FIFA's commitment to safety amid evolving climate concerns.