FIFA is introducing mandatory three-minute hydration breaks during each half of football matches at the 2026 World Cup, according to commentary published by outlets including The Independent and Yahoo Sports. The breaks are scheduled to occur for every match, with the rule applying across both halves rather than being optional or limited to specific conditions. The commentary characterizes the move as part of FIFA’s commercial and operational planning around the tournament, arguing that the breaks could change the flow of play and affect the viewing experience. Both articles reference the same core policy: hydration breaks lasting three minutes in each half at the 2026 tournament. The coverage presented is opinion-based rather than reporting on new match events or outcomes, and it focuses on the implications of the regulation for match rhythm and spectacle. The articles do not indicate that FIFA is revising the policy in response to feedback at the time of publication.