Zurich, Switzerland, December 9, 2025
FIFA has mandated three-minute hydration breaks at the 22-minute mark in each half for all matches in the 2026 World Cup, regardless of weather conditions. This initiative prioritizes player welfare by ensuring consistent safety across venues. It replaces the previous cooling break model that was only applied in extreme heat. This decision is in response to concerns regarding player performance during high temperatures observed in the 2025 Club World Cup. The tournament will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11, 2026.
Zurich, Switzerland – FIFA has announced that all matches in the 2026 World Cup will include mandatory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half, regardless of weather conditions. This decision aims to prioritize player welfare and standardize safety measures across all venues.
The hydration breaks will occur at the 22-minute mark of each half, with referees pausing the game to allow players to rehydrate. This approach replaces the previous system, which only implemented cooling breaks when temperatures exceeded 31°C (88°F) at kickoff. The new rule ensures equal conditions for all teams, irrespective of the host country—United States, Canada, or Mexico—or stadium features such as roofs or air conditioning.
FIFA’s Chief Tournament Officer for the USA emphasized the uniformity of the new policy, stating that the breaks will be consistent across all games, regardless of location or temperature. He also noted that if an injury stoppage occurs near the scheduled break time, the referee will address it on the spot.
This initiative follows concerns raised during the 2025 Club World Cup held in the U.S., where high temperatures affected player performance. A report highlighted that 10 of the 16 venues for the 2026 World Cup are at high risk of extreme heat stress. FIFA’s decision to implement hydration breaks in every match reflects a commitment to ensuring optimal conditions for players and mitigating heat-related risks during the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2026. The tournament will feature matches across various venues, with the new hydration break policy set to be implemented in all games to promote player health and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new hydration break policy for the 2026 World Cup?
FIFA has mandated that all matches in the 2026 World Cup will include a three-minute hydration break at the 22-minute mark of each half, regardless of weather conditions or stadium features.
Why has FIFA implemented this policy?
The policy aims to prioritize player welfare by standardizing safety measures across all venues and mitigating heat-related risks during the tournament.
When will the 2026 World Cup begin?
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2026, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Key Features of the 2026 World Cup Hydration Break Policy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hydration Break Timing | Three-minute break at the 22-minute mark of each half |
| Applicability | Mandatory in all matches, regardless of weather conditions or stadium features |
| Purpose | Ensure player welfare and standardize safety measures across all venues |
| Implementation Date | Effective during the 2026 World Cup, starting June 11, 2026 |
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