World Cup hydration breaks - who are the winners and losers?
They have become a regular feature at World Cup games - but who are the winners and who are losers of the mandatory hydration breaks?
Many matches at the 2026 World Cup are taking place in extreme heat
It has become a familiar scene at World Cup games.
The referee blows his whistle to stop the game 22 minutes into each half to allow players to rehydrate.
The mandatory three-minute drinks break at all 104 games has been introduced to help players tackle stifling heat and humidity levels in Mexico, Canada and the United States.
Some have described the breaks as commercial interruptions to appease US broadcasters.
Hydration breaks even take place at grounds with retractable roofs with interior climate control.
Asked about the stop…
BBC Sport Football
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