)
FIFA officially introduced hydration breaks at the World Cup to mitigate the risk of player exhaustion in matches played in high temperatures.
However, Honduran referee Said Martinez called for one in the 26th minute of Wednesday's Group L match between England and Ghana (0-0), which was played in Boston in cold, rainy weather. This came shortly after play had already been halted in the 20th minute due to a head collision between Reece James and Jordan Ayew. The decision was met with significant booing from fans, mirroring similar reactions at other stadiums.
Television broadcasters utilize hydration breaks for commercials. "They apply to all teams in all matches. This is the only way to guarantee equal conditions for all participants in the tournament," FIFA stated in an official announcement, according to DPA.
More on the 2026 FIFA World Cup:
- Full Schedule
- Complete Results
- Standings
- 2026 FIFA World Cup News
- World Cup TV Schedule
- Team Kits
- Stadiums
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)