FIFA World Cup 2026: FIFA Approves Mandatory Hydration Breaks At Football World Cup

FIFA World Cup 2026: FIFA has confirmed a major change in match rules for the 2026 Men's World Cup in North America (Mexico, the United States, and Canada). Every match will now have a mandatory three-minute hydration break in both halves. This break will be independent of weather, venue, or stadium technology. This will likely be part of the Football World Cup rules. The Football World Cup tournament will run from June 11 to July 19.

There will be a 'hydration break' at the Football World Cup

Starting next year, referees will pause play at the 22nd minute of each half to allow players to drink water and cool themselves. Unlike previous tournaments, this rule will also apply to stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico that have roofs or advanced air-conditioning systems.

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Officials will have limited flexibility. If play is stopped just before the 22nd minute due to an injury or interruption, a hydration break can be included in that delay. FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association/International Federation of Association Football) Chief Tournament Officer for 2026, Manolo Zubiria, stated in a meeting with broadcasters that the on-field referee will make this decision.

When does a break occur before a 'hydration break'?

FIFA, the governing body of football, has described this update as a streamlining of existing rules. Previously, hydration breaks were only mandatory when the heat exceeded a certain threshold, which was set at 32°C based on wet-bulb global temperature measurements. Also Read; FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule Unveiled... Find Out When and Where the Matches Will Be Held

Why the 'Hydration Break' Decision Was Made

This decision was made because players suffered from high humidity and heat during this year's FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. Similar problems have been observed in previous tournaments. During the 2014 World Cup, a Brazilian court warned FIFA that they would face fines if they did not provide cooling breaks. In addition to safety, this change will also benefit broadcasters, as they will now have scheduled breaks to plan advertising and coverage. This is rare in a continuously running sport like football. The 48 teams participating in the tournament have been divided into 12 groups of four each. 32 teams will then advance to the Round of 32, which will begin the knockout rounds. The eyes of the whole world are fixed on July 19, 2026, when the new world football champion will be decided at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

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Summary

This rule will apply regardless of weather or stadium technology. The break is now scheduled for the 22nd minute of each half. The tournament will be held between June 11 and July 19.