Fans voiced their frustration with FIFA’s new hydration breaks during World Cup matches on Wednesday, with loud boos heard in both Dallas and Toronto.
The breaks, introduced for the first time at the 2026 World Cup, are designed to help players cope with the heat and humidity across North America. FIFA has made the three minute stoppages mandatory once in each half.
However, many supporters are unhappy with the move.
The first protests came during England’s Group L match against Croatia in Dallas. Fans from both teams began booing when referee Clement Turpin stopped play for a hydration break in the 22nd minute.
Similar scenes followed later in Toronto during Ghana’s clash with Panama.
The reaction surprised some observers because the weather in Toronto was cool and rainy. Supporters still jeered as players from both teams walked to their benches during the break.
Many critics believe the stoppages disrupt the rhythm of matches. Others argue they give broadcasters extra opportunities to show advertisements.
Panama coach Thomas Christiansen questioned the need for the break after his team’s 1-0 defeat to Ghana.
“If you have a break, it’s to do corrections,” Christiansen said.
“It was not hot, but we have to accept that the advertisers on television are paying for all these things.”
The criticism is not limited to Wednesday’s matches.
Fans also booed during a hydration break in Norway’s World Cup game against Iraq on Tuesday in Boston, where temperatures were only around 23 degrees Celsius.
Iraq had held Norway at 0-0 before the stoppage. The team then conceded four minutes after play resumed and eventually lost the match 4-1.
The debate over hydration breaks is likely to continue as the tournament progresses, with many supporters still unconvinced about their place in the game.
