FIFA changes rules for the 2026 World Cup to control hydration breaks

• FIFA has revised the rules on hydration breaks for the 2026 World Cup, allowing them to be taken at the players’ discretion.
• According to the new guidelines, hydration breaks are not tied to a specific moment in the match, meaning they can be used to slow the pace of play.
• The material also notes that FIFA will control match schedules and sales, but will not be able to guarantee access through international transport because of the time required for international travel.

During the match between Canada and Qatar on June 18, players were forced to take a hydration break after the start of the second half due to the high temperature. FIFA said this was a decision made to ensure player welfare at the 2026 World Cup, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he was pleased with the decision, saying that “it is important for players.”

New rules for hydration breaks have also been introduced: the number of breaks will depend on the temperature, and players will be able to take them at their own discretion. FIFA said the changes were made to ensure player safety and to reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

It is also noted that FIFA may be able to use a “time-out” system, but it will not be mandatory. The rules are expected to apply to all 104 matches, with breaks scheduled based on the temperature and match conditions.

In addition, the material states that the new hydration breaks will be reviewed by FIFA and could be expanded in future tournaments. FIFA said it will continue to monitor conditions and adjust the rules as needed.

It is also emphasized that FIFA’s decision is aimed at protecting players’ health and ensuring that the tournament remains fair and competitive. FIFA will work with local organizers to ensure appropriate conditions for hydration breaks.

In a statement, FIFA said it would implement the changes to hydration breaks to ensure that players can receive fluids when needed, without disrupting the flow of the match. The organization said it would also consider the impact of breaks on television broadcasts.

In addition, FIFA noted that it will use data from previous tournaments to improve the hydration break system. The organization said it will also consider feedback from players and medical experts.

FIFA’s plan is to introduce hydration breaks in all matches at the 2026 World Cup, with the number of breaks depending on the temperature. FIFA said that the rules will be designed to protect players from overheating and dehydration.

It is also said that FIFA may be able to use a “cooling” system for players in extreme heat. However, the organization stressed that the final decision will depend on the conditions at each match.

In the context of the new rules, FIFA said it will continue to work on improving player welfare and safety. The organization said it will also monitor the situation during the tournament and adjust the rules if necessary.

In total, FIFA plans to introduce hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup to ensure player welfare and safety in hot conditions. The organization said it will also work to ensure that the breaks do not affect the fairness of the competition.

It is also expected that FIFA will continue to cooperate with UEFA and other partners to ensure that the rules are consistent across competitions. FIFA said it will also consider the impact of hydration breaks on match schedules.

FIFA’s decision comes after criticism that the previous hydration break rules did not adequately protect players in hot weather. FIFA said the new rules are designed to address these concerns.

In addition, FIFA said it will review the new hydration break rules after the 2026 World Cup. The organization said it will use the results to improve the system for future tournaments.

According to the plan, FIFA will introduce hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup starting from the group stage. FIFA said the rules will be implemented gradually to ensure that teams and players can adapt.

Finally, FIFA said it is confident that the new hydration break rules will help protect players and ensure a high-quality tournament for fans worldwide.

In the match between Canada and Qatar on June 18, the players were forced to take a hydration break after the start of the second half due to the high temperature. FIFA said it was a decision made to ensure player welfare at the 2026 World Cup, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino said that the decision was made to ensure that players “are protected.”

Scientific research supports the changes: studies show that even short breaks can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. FIFA said that hydration breaks will be introduced to all 104 matches, standardizing the conditions based on time of day and temperature.

It is also said that the research found that players can be affected by heat and that the risk increases with the intensity of play. The material notes that hydration breaks can help reduce the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.

However, FIFA said it will not be able to guarantee that the breaks will be taken in every match, as the decision depends on weather conditions and the match schedule. The organization noted that it will work with stadium operators to ensure the breaks can be implemented.

The material also states that FIFA will implement the hydration break system in a way that respects the rules of the competition. For the 2030 World Cup, FIFA plans to introduce hydration breaks in all matches in the three host continents, while for the 2034 tournament it will be based on the climate in the host regions.

Tags: Sport/Weather/Research/Football