The 2026 FIFA World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa was paused at the Estadio Azteca for the first hydration break of the tournament, a player welfare measure that also provides broadcasters with a new advertising opportunity during live play.
The referee stops play around the 25 minute mark so players from both teams can have drinks and recover before the match resumes. This is not due to an injury or a VAR check, but is part of FIFA’s new tournament protocol.
FIFA has mandated three-minute hydration breaks in each half of every World Cup match, regardless of temperature, location or host nation. It means that the stoppage will take place even if the match is played in cooler conditions, in a stadium with a roof or in an air-conditioned venue.
Published on June 12, 2026
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