Traditionally, hydration breaks are used during games when temperatures hit a certain threshold, typically 32°C or above. It’s a short break for players to take on liquids. For the 2026 World Cup, a new, mandated hydration break was brought in. There is one hydration break halfway through each half when the ball goes out of play, and they last for three minutes each. It’s a big talking point, a stealth way for more advertising to be shown during matches, frustrating viewers in the stadiums and at home.
The hydration breaks during the ’26 World Cup are so frustrating. It kills the momentum of the game and it’s led to an Americanisation of the sport with some US commentators calling the match by quarters instead of a game of two halves. There has been plenty of booing, especially in air-conditioned stadiums where there’s no need for a break in play.
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