For the first time in World Cup history, FIFA has mandated hydration breaks for all soccer players, a move aimed at safeguarding them from the dangers of extreme heat. With this summer's tournament, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, anticipated to be one of the hottest on record, player welfare concerns are paramount.
In response, FIFA implemented three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half, irrespective of the ambient temperature. However, the new regulation has drawn criticism from two distinct camps.
