FIFA implemented mandatory three-minute hydration breaks, one in each half, at the 2026 World Cup to help players manage heat and humidity on the field [1, 2, 3].
During the England vs. Croatia match on June 17 at Dallas Stadium, loud boos erupted from fans of both teams as soon as referee Clement Turpin blew the whistle to start the hydration break at the 22nd minute [1, 2, 3]. Turpin’s whistle signaled a pause that many spectators appeared to disdain [1].
Critics say the hydration breaks disrupt the flow of the game. Some also argue the pauses effectively divide matches into four quarters, creating more advertising opportunities for broadcasters [1, 2, 3].
Similar fan reactions were reported a day earlier on June 16 at the Norway vs Iraq match in Boston Stadium, where the temperature was 23 degrees Celsius during the break [1, 2, 3]. Fans booed at the hydration break as Iraq held a 0-0 tie but then conceded a goal four minutes after play resumed, eventually losing 4-1 [1, 2, 3].
The breaks also drew booing from fans during the Panama vs Ghana game in Toronto on June 17, despite steady rain during the match [3].
The hydration breaks are set to continue at all World Cup matches this tournament, with each break lasting three minutes, designed to improve player safety amid challenging weather conditions [1, 2, 3].
