FIFA has made hydration breaks mandatory at every match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, introducing a three-minute stoppage in each half — effectively dividing games into four quarters rather than two halves.

The measure was put in place to help players cope with the intense heat and humidity across the three host nations: Mexico, the United States, and Canada. All 104 matches in the tournament will include the compulsory pause.

Criticism from coaches and captains

The breaks have not been welcomed universally. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has voiced his opposition, and USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino has also raised concerns about the interruptions to the flow of the game.

Critics argue that the stoppages give coaches an additional opportunity to issue tactical instructions — beyond what would normally be permitted during a half — and that broadcasters have seized on the pauses to air commercial advertisements.

FIFA defends the decision

FIFA has defended the policy, stating it "is part of a focused attempt to ensure the best possible conditions for players, drawing upon the experiences of previous tournaments, including the recent FIFA Club World Cup."

The governing body points to player welfare as the central justification, arguing that the climatic conditions across the host cities demanded a structured response.

Debate deepens on the podcast

The topic was examined on More than the Score, a BBC World Service podcast covering the stories, trends, and personalities shaping the 2026 FIFA World Cup beyond the results. Host Lee James was joined in Toronto by CBC Olympic and sports commentator Matt Cullen and BBC Football Tactics Correspondent Umir Irfan to discuss the fundamental question: do these breaks serve the players, or do they serve the broadcasters?

With 48 nations competing across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, the debate over hydration breaks reflects a broader tension between player welfare and the commercial demands of the world's biggest football tournament.