Fifa to review hydration breaks after 2026 World Cup concerns

BBC Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 18, 2026, 9:42 PM

Last updated Jul 18, 2026

Fifa to review hydration breaks after 2026 World Cup concerns

Summary

Arsene Wenger announced that Fifa will assess the hydration breaks implemented during the 2026 World Cup following criticism from fans and commentators. The breaks, lasting three minutes, were introduced regardless of weather conditions to promote player welfare. However, many attendees expressed dissatisfaction, resulting in boos during matches. Wenger indicated that a thorough analysis will take place after the tournament to understand their impact. While the breaks have drawn criticism, some coaches, like Spain's Luis de la Fuente, support them for player health.

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BBC Football

Key Details

•Hydration breaks were introduced for the 2026 World Cup matches.
•Fans expressed frustration, leading to booing during certain matches.
•Wenger acknowledged mixed reactions but stressed the breaks were for player welfare.
•Fifa plans an analysis of the breaks' impact after the tournament.
•Some coaches support the breaks as beneficial for players' health.

Latest Updates

9:42 PMBBC Football — Fifa to review 'unpopular' hydration breaks - Wenger

What they're saying

"
Arsene Wenger says he accepts the hydration breaks introduced at the 2026 World Cup have not been popular and Fifa will review their impact after the tournament.
— BBC Football

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