2026 World Cup: FIFA introduces a new rule | OneFootball

World Cup 2026: An unprecedented decision from FIFA

2026 World Cup: FIFA introduces a new rule

In response to the extreme weather conditions expected in the United States during the 2026 World Cup, FIFA has made a groundbreaking decision: there will be two mandatory three-minute breaks in every match. This unprecedented move aims to protect players, who will be exposed to intense heat and humidity, in order to "restore their fluid and salt balance." These interruptions will be implemented everywhere, regardless of the stadium or the day's weather, highlighting the growing concern for athlete health.

Jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 World Cup will kick off on June 11 with Mexico facing South Africa, setting the stage for a tournament whose playing conditions are already sparking debate. FIFA had faced harsh criticism for awarding the event to a country where summer temperatures can reach dangerous levels. The world football governing body is now trying to address these concerns by ramping up medical protocols.

The full schedule has been released, with only the group compositions as follows:

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Republic of Korea, Winner Czechia/Republic of Ireland – Denmark/North MacedoniaGroup B: Canada, Winner Wales/Bosnia and Herzegovina – Italy/Northern Ireland, Qatar, SwitzerlandGroup C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, ScotlandGroup D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Winner Slovakia/Kosovo – Turkey/RomaniaGroup E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, EcuadorGroup F: Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, Winner Ukraine/Sweden – Poland/AlbaniaGroup G: Belgium, Egypt, IR Iran, New ZealandGroup H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, UruguayGroup I: France, Senegal, Norway, Winner Iraq – Bolivia/SurinameGroup J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, JordanGroup K: Portugal, Uzbekistan, Colombia, Winner DR Congo – New Caledonia/JamaicaGroup L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama