FIFA Shifts to Four-Quarter Football

FIFA has announced mandatory hydration breaks of three minutes in the 22nd minute of all matches at the 2026 World Cup, regardless of temperature conditions. This represents a significant change from the traditional two 45-minute halves to a four-quarter format of approximately 22 minutes each. sos-zagle.org.pl

The move, framed as enhancing player wellbeing, marks the most substantial rule change in football since the two-half system was established in 1897. In 2014, similar proposals led to legal action from players concerned about heat conditions, but FIFA's 2026 implementation will be automatic across all matches.