FIFA has ordered two three-minute hydration breaks in every match of the 2026 World Cup – regardless of weather or stadium roof. According to the world governing body, the measure is intended to ensure equal conditions for all teams. In the Bundesliga and the Champions League, however, there will be no such mandatory breaks.
The German Football League (DFL) told Sportschau that hydration breaks will continue to be decided on a case-by-case basis depending on weather conditions. Referees can grant breaks in extreme heat, but a fixed schedule like at the World Cup is not planned. UEFA also has no plans to change its regulations for the Champions League or Euro 2028. Breaks are mandatory when temperatures reach 35 degrees Celsius or the heat index exceeds 32; below that, it is at the referee’s discretion.
FIFA had come under criticism for the extreme heat during the 2025 Club World Cup. Players’ unions accused the organization of risking players’ health. In response, FIFA announced the mandatory hydration breaks for the World Cup. In the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, such a procedure is not planned for the 2026/27 season.
EuroPulse reported on June 13, 2026, about the wildcard application of the Löwen Braunschweig for the Bundesliga (https://europulse.today/loewen-braunschweig-wildcard-basketball-bundesliga/).
Source: www.sportschau.de
