FIFA implements mandatory water breaks in each half for first time at 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will introduce one of the most noticeable in-game rule changes in modern tournament history: Mandatory hydration breaks in every match. For the first time, players will be required to pause twice per game, once in each half, for a three-minute water break, regardless of weather conditions or stadium location across the United States, Mexico and Canada . Under the new format, referees will stop play at roughly the 22-minute mark of each half. Players will remain on the pit