Ahead of the match between England and Croatia on 17/6, some England fans posted on social media that they would protest the cooling break rule.
As referee Clement Turpin blew the whistle for a cooling break in the 22nd minute, boos from both sets of fans echoed through the stands of Dallas Stadium in Texas, United States.
Cooling break during the match between England and Croatia at Dallas Stadium, Texas on 17/6. Video: X/Dean Ralsky
FIFA implemented a three-minute cooling break in each half at the 2026 World Cup. This measure aims to help players adapt to the hot weather and high humidity of the North American summer. This is the first time the rule has been enforced.
However, the rule has faced criticism from fans who believe the breaks disrupt the match's rhythm. Others suspect a commercial motive, suggesting it divides the game into four parts to provide broadcasters with more time for advertisements.
The technical breaks also met with disapproval in Toronto, Canada, during the other Group L match between Panama and Ghana. Many fans booed as players headed towards the technical area despite the rain.
A similar reaction occurred during the match between Norway and Iraq at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts, United States, even though the temperature was only about 23 degrees Celsius. When the match paused, Iraq was holding Norway to a 0-0 draw and playing well. However, just four minutes after play resumed, they conceded a goal and ultimately lost 1-4.
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England national team players during a cooling break in the match against Croatia on 17/6. Photo: AFP
Another instance involved Curacao, a team making its World Cup debut. A three-minute cooling break occurred just after they had equalized against Germany. Curacao ultimately lost 1-7, demonstrating how interruptions can affect a match's momentum.
Conversely, some argue that hydration breaks are entirely reasonable. Certain matches at the 2026 World Cup take place in intense heat and high humidity, necessitating player hydration. Applying this format consistently throughout the tournament, regardless of weather conditions, is considered a fair approach.
"Ultimately, it's fairest for all matches to be played under the same format", *FourFourTwo* magazine reported.
Huyen Le (According to Reuters)
