FIFA make decision on hydration breaks for future World Cup tournaments amid backlash

FIFA have been called out by fans for 'lying' about hydration breaks in the World Cup round of 32 clash between Mexico and Ecuador.

Just before kick-off was due to take place, the fixture at the Estadio Azteca was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms in the local area.

The game began at 8pm local time and saw co-hosts Mexico win 2-0 courtesy of goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez.

Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie was sent off in stoppage time for covering his mouth in a confrontational manner, becoming the second player in the World Cup to be punished for breaking the new FIFA rule.

FIFA announced the delay beforehand and said they would "follow the safety protocols established by the local authorities" as the governing body confirmed "the match will start as soon as it is safe to do so".

The official statement from FIFA also said that "no hydration breaks will take place during this match" as a result of the delay due to adverse weather conditions.

The breaks occur halfway into each half and last for three minutes, allowing players to take on fluids and receive tactical instructions from coaches.

READ MORE: New FIFA rule explained as Arsenal's Piero Hincapie sent off for 'stupid' moment vs Mexico

“Player welfare” was cited as the reason for the introduction of hydration breaks because of the heat and temperatures in North America.

The break has been a gold-mine for many broadcasters, who have been been allowed to cut to commercials. Fox are said to have raked in a fortune from the adverts.

But despite the initial statement, FIFA performed a swift u-turn and the game was paused in two instances even with the temperature at around 14 degrees and regular rainfall.

Their statement appeared to be amended as an updated version did not contain any detail about hydration breaks.

The move caused significant backlash amongst viewers, who were looking forward to a match without breaks.

On X, one fan wrote: 'They said no hydration breaks. They lied lol'.

A second said: "FIFA: No hydration breaks tonight. Also FIFA: Alright, time for commercials and a hydration break guys."

A third added: "Well, that’s false advertisement."

A fourth commented: "Well that was a lie."

Hydration breaks to remain in upcoming World Cups despite backlash

Previously in 2014 and 2018 editions of the World Cup, hydration breaks were adopted when temperatures soared.

But in the 2026 showpiece, every single game has featured pauses - effectively turning games into four quarters in the style of the NBA or NFL.

France's 3-0 win over Iraq acted as the only exception as it is the only game to not include two hydration breaks. The second half took place without a short intermission because of lengthy delay due to the weather.

The overriding feeling from fans it that the breaks have disrupted momentum from games.

The breaks will continue for the remaining 18 fixtures and according to City AM, they are likely here to stay.

The outlet claims that temperatures in the 2030 tournament in Spain, Portugal and Morocco will be higher than the current showpiece.

Following that, the 2034 edition in Saudi Arabia is also expected to played in extreme heat. Citing sources, City AM reports that FIFA plan to review the hydration breaks after the tournament finishes.

UEFA, meanwhile, have said there will be no hydration breaks at Euro 2028 - hosted by England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland.

SPORTbible has contracted FIFA for comment.