Overview
- FIFA implemented compulsory three‑minute hydration breaks in each half for all 104 World Cup matches and the rule remains in force despite mounting criticism from players, coaches and pundits.
- Broadcasters, notably FOX in the United States, have used the breaks to air full‑screen paid ads and at least one broadcast returned late to live play, prompting FIFA to reprimand the rights‑holder and accept an apology.
- High‑profile voices including Mauricio Pochettino, Virgil van Dijk and Gary Lineker argue the stoppages disrupt momentum and give coaches tactical time to regroup, with several matches showing notable momentum shifts after breaks.
- A widely shared set of quotes attributed to Jürgen Klopp attacking the breaks was debunked and corrected after fact‑checks found the remarks were fabricated.
- The measure has precedent in extreme‑heat protocols from 2014 and the 2025 Club World Cup, but critics note FIFA made the breaks mandatory regardless of temperature or closed‑roof climate control and the debate now focuses on whether the policy should be revised after the tournament