FIFA’s explanation for scrapping football rule at 2026 World Cup
December 9, 2025 / /
Matches at the 2026 World Cup will be like no other after FIFA controversially announced a new mandatory rule for all teams
Everything you need to know about FIFA’s new rule for the 2026 World Cup…
- Tournament structure change: The 2026 World Cup will feature a major structural change, as FIFA has effectively decided to scrap the traditional 45-minute half. The new format mandates the inclusion of three-minute “hydration breaks” midway through each half of every match.
- New match quarters: These compulsory breaks mean that matches will now be played in quarters, fundamentally altering the flow of the game. Play will be halted exactly 22 minutes into both the first and second halves, regardless of the score or current action.
- Player welfare rationale: This controversial change is a direct response to the scorching temperatures anticipated at the tournament in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Concerns over player welfare were highlighted after athletes and managers complained of dizziness and searing heat during the preceding Club World Cup.
- Mandatory implementation: Crucially, these new hydration breaks are mandatory for all games, a departure from past cooling breaks that were only implemented when temperatures reached a certain threshold. FIFA states this blanket decision ensures identical playing conditions for all teams throughout the tournament.
- Controversy and advertising: The mandatory nature of the breaks is expected to be controversial among fans and critics of the organisation. Detractors are likely to point out that the guaranteed stoppage time will provide additional opportunities for advertisers to appeal to viewers.
- Mitigation and remaining issues: FIFA has attempted mitigation by scheduling most games for the evening or utilising roofed/air-conditioned stadiums for afternoon matches. Despite this, the global players’ union had called for shorter, more frequent breaks, and environmental groups criticise the tournament’s 48-team expansion and carbon footprint.
- READ THE FULL STORY: FIFA announce controversial major changes to World Cup matches after complaints
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