The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature compulsory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half in every match, regardless of weather conditions [1, 2, 3]. FIFA said the breaks, called by the referee, will ensure equal conditions for all teams across venues and temperatures. "There will be no weather or temperature condition in place, with the breaks being called by the referee in all games, to ensure equal conditions for all teams, in all matches," FIFA stated [1].
The hydration pauses mark a new approach to player welfare at the World Cup. However, some critics say the breaks mimic US sports' quarter-based formats and allow American broadcasters to sell advertising during these stoppages [1, 2, 3].
Another key rule update expands the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. Since its 2018 debut at the World Cup, VAR has reviewed goals, penalties, straight red cards, and mistaken identity. For 2026, VAR will also review second yellow card sendings-off and clearly incorrect corner awards [1, 2, 3]. Reviews must be completed immediately without delaying restarts [1, 2, 3].
In addition, countdown timers will be introduced for goal-kicks, throw-ins, and substitutions to discourage time-wasting. Teams that delay restarts face losing possession as a penalty [1, 2, 3]. An eight-second time limit for goalkeepers holding the ball has been recently enforced, leading to corners awarded against teams exceeding this threshold [1, 2, 3].
These changes follow growing concerns about game tempo and fairness after the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which saw substantial extensions of stoppage time following a FIFA directive [1, 2, 3]. The International Football Association Board officially announced the VAR scope expansion earlier in 2026 [1, 2, 3].
The 2026 World Cup will take place from November to December across three North American countries. The hydration breaks, expanded VAR rules, and countdown timers for time-wasting will all be implemented during the tournament [1, 2, 3].
