Short answer: At the 2026 FIFA World Cup there are two mandatory hydration breaks per match — one about 22 minutes into the first half and one about 67 minutes into the second — and each break lasts roughly three minutes. Details and context

  • Timing and length: FIFA introduced a scheduled mid‑half stoppage around the 22nd minute of the first half and the 67th minute of the second half, with each break set at about three minutes long.
  • How it appears on broadcasts: broadcasters in some territories insert commercials during those pauses (ads typically start ~20 seconds after the referee signals the break and must finish ~30 seconds before play restarts), which in practice can extend the viewer-facing interruption slightly beyond the three-minute on-field window.
  • Why it was introduced: FIFA and organizers say the breaks are for player welfare (hydration and cooling) and to improve match officiating and viewing presentation; critics argue they interrupt the flow of the game and have been used to create extra advertising revenue.
  • Practical effects: teams and managers have adjusted tactics and substitution timing around the breaks, and some fans and pundits see the change as shifting football toward a more segmented, four-quarter feel.

Quick reference table (breaks per match)

When Approx. minute On-field length Broadcast notes
First half mid-break ~22' ~3 minutes Ads may be shown after ~20s; must finish ~30s before restart
Second half mid-break ~67' ~3 minutes Same as first-half break
[1] If you want, I can:
  • Pull the exact FIFA wording or match protocol text for the hydration-break rule.
  • Compile a short list of articles/opinions (pro and con) summarizing reactions from players, coaches, and broadcasters.