Fans have voiced their frustration at the introduction of hydration breaks during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which have led to American-style quarters in matches.
In December last year, FIFA announced that three-minute breaks would occur midway through each half during the tournament, citing “player welfare” for the decision. Therefore in every match, the action will be paused at approximately the 22nd and 67th minute.
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Players struggled with the sweltering temperatures during last year’s Club World Cup in the United States. Previous editions of the World Cup also had drinks breaks, but only when a certain temperature threshold had been met.
The change also allows broadcasters to air additional commercials during the break, boosting their revenues.
During Mexico’s tournament opener against South Africa on Friday morning AEST, players took a hydration break with the temperature at 24 degrees. However, some broadcasters were still showing ads when the match resumed, much to the disappointment of fans.
“These hydration break ads are terrible,” The Independent’s Miguel Delaney wrote.
“They’re anti-football. They take you out of the game! They literally came back there with play already started, a joke.”
The World Cup started with bang as three send offs rocked Mexico 2-0 victory against South Africa in Mexico City, a rematch of the 2010 tournament opener.
Elsewhere, protesters clashed with riot police in violent scenes outside the opening match of the tournament.