Regardless of temperature: FIFA will add three-minute drinks breaks to each half of the World Cup
The World Football Association FIFA has decided to allow (mandatory) drink breaks at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the US. Halfway through the first half and halfway through the second half, the players are given three minutes to hydrate. This measure applies to every World Cup match, regardless of the weather conditions.
Drink breaks are equally ubiquitous in football. In extreme temperatures, the referee regularly lets the players go to the side collectively to drink.
FIFA wants to put an end to these differences between matches at the next World Cup. The Football Association decided to introduce three-minute drinks breaks, one per half. Every time after 22 minutes of football, the referee will stop the game.
“No weather or temperature conditions apply; breaks are scheduled by the referee in all matches to ensure equal conditions for all teams in all matches,” FIFA said.
In the event of an injury or other interruption just before the drinks break, the referee can decide to bring the break forward.
FIFA wants to create the best possible conditions for the players. As part of that vision, the 2026 World Cup will also have more rest days between matches.
