All World Cup matches to have hydration breaks

Every match at the 2026 World Cup will have three-minute hydration breaks in each half

Fifa said the measure is being introduced to “prioritise player welfare” and will happen in matches regardless of the weather conditions “to ensure equal conditions for all teams, in all matches”.

The referee will stop the game 22 minutes into each half to allow players to rehydrate.

With the tournament taking place across the US, Canada and Mexico in June and July 2026, experts warn that high temperatures, wildfires and even hurricanes could affect teams, fans and stadium workers.

The recent Pitches in Peril report – compiled by pressure groups Football for the Future and Common Goal – found that 10 of the 16 venues for the World Cup are at “very high risk of experiencing extreme heat stress conditions.”

The scheduling of last June and July’s Club World Cup drew complaints from players and managers as matches took place in extreme heat.

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez said he felt “dizzy” while playing in “very dangerous” heat at the tournament.

Last week, England manager Thomas Tuchel said he may have his substitutes stay in the dressing room during matches because of the risks posed by high temperatures.

Fifa said the hydrations breaks will be a “streamlined and simplified version” of similar ones used at previous tournaments including the Club World Cup.