Matches will be paused 22 minutes into each half.
FIFA has introduced a new rule for the 2026 World Cup to account for the heat. Regardless of the weather, every match will feature a three-minute water break around the middle of each half. The referee will stop play 22 minutes into each half.
In a statement on Monday, world football’s governing body said the new rule will simplify previous regulations. Under the old system, a “cooling break” was given 30 minutes into each half only if the temperature at kickoff exceeded 31°C.
Next year’s World Cup, featuring 48 teams, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June and July. It is expected to be the hottest tournament in World Cup history.
Earlier this year, the United States hosted a new-format Club World Cup, where some matches took place in the afternoon despite high temperatures.
