World Cup hydration breaks - who are the winners and losers?
Summary
The 2026 World Cup has introduced mandatory hydration breaks at every game to help players cope with high heat and humidity in the host countries. While these breaks are meant for player safety, some coaches and players say they disrupt the game's flow and momentum.Key Facts
- There is a three-minute hydration break 22 minutes into each half of every match at the 2026 World Cup.
- The purpose of the breaks is to help players rehydrate in the extreme heat found in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
- Some coaches, like USA's Mauricio Pochettino, feel the breaks should only happen in very extreme weather.
- Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti used the break to give tactical instructions, which helped Brazil come back from behind to draw against Morocco.
- Some see the breaks as beneficial for teams losing momentum because they provide a chance to regain energy and focus.
- Players like Juan Mata think the breaks interrupt the natural flow of the game and are not positive.
- Fans sometimes feel disappointed because the breaks stop the excitement and continuity of matches.
- There is criticism that the breaks may also be used as commercial or advertising opportunities during broadcasts.
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