Hydration breaks spark debate at World Cup 2026 (opens original article in a new tab)

FIFA's mandatory hydration breaks at World Cup 2026 have sparked debate over their impact on match flow and player welfare, with critics arguing they disrupt momentum and create tactical advantages while supporters say they help cope with heat.

• FIFA introduced mandatory hydration breaks at World Cup 2026 to help teams cope with summer conditions
• Hydration breaks have sparked debate over disrupting match flow and tactical advantages
• Some coaches and officials question the necessity of breaks in cooler venues or non-heat conditions