The 2026 World Cup will introduce mandatory “cooling breaks” – three-minute pauses during matches – to protect players from extreme heat. These breaks, officially termed “hydration pauses,” are a proactive measure to address potentially dangerous playing conditions. The initiative acknowledges the impact of adverse weather, particularly heat, on player performance and well-being. While the specific triggers for implementing the breaks haven’t been detailed, they will prioritize player health. Organizers are anticipating challenging climatic conditions during the tournament, necessitating this intervention. The pauses will allow players to rehydrate and briefly recover, mitigating the risks associated with heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses. This is a new protocol for the World Cup, designed to ensure a safer competition environment.