World Cup 2026: Are hydration breaks here to stay?

Fifa has introduced mandatory hydration breaks for this World Cup, essentially splitting the games into four quarters. The mandatory three-minute drinks stoppage at all 104 games has been introduced to help players cope with the stifling heat and humidity levels in Mexico, Canada and the United States. It has been criticised for allowing coaches to make tactical changes while broadcasters can - and many have - opted to cut to lucrative commercial breaks while play is halted.

It has attracted criticism from the likes of the Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk and USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino. Fifa says the measure "is part of a focused attempt to ensure the best possible conditions for players, drawing upon the experiences of previous tournaments, including the recent FIFA Club World Cup."

Lee James is joined in Toronto by CBC's Olympic and Sports commentator, Matt Cullen, and BBC Football Tactics Correspondent, Umir Irfan, to discuss who benefits from a mid-half break in play - players or broadcasters?

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