Sport · Thursday, August 27, 2026
2026 World Cup hydration breaks spark debate
FIFA is imposing three-minute hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup, an unpopular measure that could extend to other competitions despite concerns over the pace of play.
By Editorial team
FIFA has decided to introduce mandatory three-minute hydration breaks during the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. These interruptions, criticized for fragmenting the flow of matches, are dividing observers of world football. Former English goalkeeper Ben Foster fears that these breaks, justified by commercial motives, could extend to the Champions League. However, the Premier League has rejected this requirement for the 2026-27 season.