THis edition of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be unlike any other. First, this will be the first time that three countries will host the tournament: Canada, the United States, and Mexico (the first country to host three World Cups).
Another big change is that there will be a total of 104 games and 48 teams, including the 45 qualifying countries and the three host countries. But thanks to these three countries, especially the United States, the NBA and NFL’s tradition of commercial breaks during games will continue in soccer.
FIFA to allow commercials at World Cup
A few months ago, in December last year, FIFA announced that as a “player welfare” measure, there would be a three-minute hydration break in the first half of each match (around the 22nd minute of each period), regardless of weather conditions, venue, or whether the stadium has a roof or air conditioning.
The Athletic reported that the measure is being talked about again because FIFA has decided that these minutes can be used by broadcasters who own the broadcast rights and are responsible for bringing the matches to fans during commercial breaks.
This dynamic already has precedent in soccer, starting with the Club World Cup and now being used in other competitions. However, the move sets a precedent in World Cup history and marks the first time in the tournament’s history that commercial breaks have been introduced during matches.
Given that this three-minute hydration period is mandatory and must be applied at every game, it opens the door for advertisers to access premium segments of viewers around the world during high-attention times, as is the case with NFL games, the Super Bowl, and NBA games.
The measures have caused mixed reactions among fans, with some understanding the need for measures to protect players, especially given the high temperatures expected in June and July, but criticizing the fact that the situation is being “exploited” to justify advertising and change the nature of football. In this way, some believe that sports are increasingly moving towards a form of entertainment.
Meanwhile, with nearly 100 days left until the start of the World Cup (June 11th to July 19th), surprises and new information continue to arrive.
