FIFA Unveils New 3-Minute Breaks for World Cup 2026 Matches

UPDATE: FIFA just announced a groundbreaking change for the 2026 World Cup: every match will pause for a mandatory three-minute hydration break halfway through each half. This new rule, which divides games into four quarters similar to the NFL and basketball, was confirmed during the World Cup draw held on October 13, 2023.

The decision comes as player safety takes center stage amidst rising global temperatures. FIFA’s medical team advocates for these breaks, stating they are essential for athlete welfare. Manolo Zubiria, FIFA’s chief tournament officer, emphasized that each pause will last “three minutes from whistle to whistle,” ensuring fairness across all matches.

Unlike previous practices where pauses were only allowed for injuries or extreme heat, this new rule mandates breaks regardless of weather conditions. FIFA assured that referees will enforce these timeouts in every fixture, marking a significant shift in traditional football norms.

The timing of these breaks will occur around the 22-minute mark in each half, and while the game clock will continue to run, officials will add an extra three minutes at the end of each half to compensate. This change aims to address concerns raised during last year’s Club World Cup, where players faced grueling heat conditions at MetLife Stadium.

The move is also expected to provide coaches with a strategic advantage, offering a crucial window to relay instructions and adjust tactics mid-game. While player welfare organizations have welcomed this initiative, some, like FIFPRO, have advocated for more frequent breaks instead of a single pause per half.

The 2026 World Cup, set to kick off on June 11 and conclude with the final on July 19, will feature 104 matches across 39 days. Afternoon matches are planned in air-conditioned venues or cooler locations, with evening games scheduled in hotter cities, including New Jersey, Miami, and Philadelphia.

This new framework also opens doors for broadcasters to introduce additional mid-match advertisements, increasing revenue opportunities. FIFA revealed that the tournament will include three opening ceremonies: one in Mexico City, another in Toronto, and the last in Los Angeles.

England’s path to break their 60-year World Cup drought appears daunting, as they will compete against Croatia, Ghana, and Panama in the group stage. The stakes are high, and fans are eager to see how these new rules will impact the flow and strategy of the game.

Stay tuned for more updates as the World Cup approaches!