A surprising scene unfolded during the friendly match between France and Brazil in Foxborough, near Boston. Despite a temperature of just 13°C, players were given a break midway through the first half.
Boston is far from experiencing a heatwave in spring. However, FIFA used this match as a test ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where high temperatures are expected.
Cooling breaks spark controversy despite mild weather
In the 22nd minute, the referee stopped play for a three-minute “cooling break” to allow players to hydrate. A second pause was scheduled for the second half, which seemed surprising given the cool conditions.
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This rule, already tested in 2025, will be systematically applied during the World Cup, regardless of temperature. It also allows broadcasters to insert advertisements. During this U.S. tour, referees began enforcing these cooling breaks: three minutes in the middle of each half.
Against Brazil (2–1), they were not particularly necessary, as temperatures stayed below 20°C. But this summer will be a different story. Didier Deschamps remains skeptical: “It’s good for broadcasters, but it changes football. Three minutes breaks the rhythm.” And it was clearly visible during Brazil vs France…
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