FIFA shifts football to four-quarter format

The FIFA has mandated 3-minute hydration breaks at the 22nd minute of all World Cup 2026 matches, regardless of temperature conditions. This marks a significant shift from the traditional two 45-minute halves format that has been in place since 1897. sweetbonanza.qpon

The move, described as being for player welfare, represents a transition to a four-quarter structure with each segment lasting approximately 22 minutes. This change follows previous disputes over hydration breaks, as players had to seek legal intervention in 2014 to ensure automatic breaks in hot conditions.