FIFA has approved a new match protocol for the 2026 World Cup that will introduce two compulsory three-minute hydration breaks in every game.
The global football body confirmed the development on Sunday, explaining that the measure is designed to protect players and ensure uniform playing conditions throughout the tournament.
The breaks will take place midway through each half, and although the match clock will continue running, an additional three minutes will be added as stoppage time at the end of each period.
The plan received full backing from national team coaches, broadcast partners and FIFA’s medical unit during meetings held around the World Cup draw in Washington, DC.
FIFA adopted a universal approach after feedback from teams that participated in the Club World Cup hosted in the United States earlier this year.
Officials reportedly concluded that temperatures varied too widely across host cities to leave hydration decisions to weather conditions alone, prompting the adoption of fixed breaks for consistency.
FIFA stated that referees will implement the hydration pauses in all matches regardless of temperature levels. Manolo Zubiria, the chief tournament officer for the 2026 event, told broadcasters that each break will last exactly three minutes from whistle to whistle.
He added that if a stoppage such as an injury overlaps with the scheduled window, referees will manage the situation accordingly.
The move follows complaints from several managers and players during the Club World Cup, where midday games were played under extreme heat.
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique said the high temperatures affected match quality, while Chelsea midfielder Enzo Maresca recounted experiencing dizziness on the pitch.
With the 2026 World Cup set to be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, FIFA believes the mandatory breaks will help maintain player welfare and reduce performance risks associated with fluctuating weather across the tournament’s venues.
