FIFA mandates three-minute hydration breaks for 2026 World Cup matches

Zurich, December 8: FIFA has decided to implement a three-minute hydration break in both halves of every match during the World Cup scheduled for next year. Referees will stop play to allow players to drink water once 22 minutes have been completed in each half. This rule will be enforced irrespective of the temperature, the specific host country among the United States, Canada, or Mexico, or the presence of roofs and air conditioning in the stadiums.

As per agency report, this decision was reached during a meeting between broadcasters and Manolo Zubiria, the head of the steering committee for the 2026 World Cup main tournament. The modification is expected to benefit broadcasters as they will be aware of the three-minute interruption in both halves in advance. FIFA specified that if a stoppage due to injury occurs just prior to the 22nd minute, the referee will have the authority to announce the hydration break at that time.

Zubiria indicated that the responsibility for managing such instances would rest with the referee. The governing body stated that this step has been taken to make the game simpler and more organized. Previously, the practice involved a break after the initial 30 minutes of play only when the temperature reached 32 degrees Celsius. The current change has been made in view of the heat and humidity that affected players during certain matches of the Club World Cup held in the United States last year.