The impact of heat and mandatory hydration breaks has emerged as one of the biggest talking points at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, with England manager Thomas Tuchel and France midfielder Adrien Rabiot among the latest high-profile figures to voice concerns.

The new rules have attracted criticism from players and fans alike.

What was introduced as a player welfare measure has evolved into mini tactical timeouts, with managers like Carlo Ancelotti and Mauricio Pochettino divided over World Cup…