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FIFA Mandates Three-Minute Hydration Breaks Midway Through Each Half at 2026 World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will include mandatory hydration breaks at the 22-minute mark of each half in every match, regardless of weather or venue conditions.
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup will include mandatory hydration breaks midway through each half of every match. Each break will last three minutes, and referees have been instructed to stop play at the 22-minute mark. The policy applies to all matches regardless of weather conditions, location, or venue type.
Some stadiums hosting matches have roofs. CBS Sports reported that the breaks represent a focused attempt to ensure the best possible conditions for players. The policy draws on experiences from previous tournaments, including the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup took place in the United States. FIFA described the 2026 World Cup hydration breaks as a streamlined and simplified version of the approach used at that tournament. FIFA said the now-finalised match schedule was designed to minimise travel for teams and fans, maximise rest days between matches, and enable the widest possible global audience to follow games across different time zones.
The schedule incorporated a technical analysis of all venues, including average temperatures, cooling infrastructure, public transport, and security. CBS Sports noted that some broadcasters may use the breaks to air commercials. The outlet added that the pauses will not involve the 15-minute wait associated with halftime.
