FIFA World Cup 2026: Preparations and Rule Changes

The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun. As part of the lead-up to this global event, ‘Fox & Friends’ featured a segment where former USMNT Midfielder Stu Holden joined live from Audi Field. He discussed the Capitol Cup, a congressional soccer match, and highlighted the growing excitement for soccer in the U.S. Holden shared insights on the national team facing the World Cup as underdogs, before participating in a lighthearted penalty-kick challenge.

Preparations for the World Cup are in full swing across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. FIFA has implemented stricter rules for match days than those usually seen at sporting events. Recently, FIFA banned refillable plastic water bottles inside stadiums, a departure from earlier policies that allowed them if temperatures were high.

“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff.”

This decision aims to prevent risks and injuries to players and attendees. Although fans were initially promised access to free water and the ability to bring refillable bottles, FIFA has clarified that existing rules at certain stadiums necessitate this prohibition.

Since the World Cup occurs in the summer, high temperatures are a concern. FIFA has addressed these by pledging additional cooling measures such as shaded areas, misting systems, cooling buses, and expanded water distribution in case of extreme heat. Yet, it remains unclear if these plans will be in place at tournament time.

For the players, FIFA has mandated a three-minute cooling break around the 22-minute mark in each half to prevent heat exhaustion. Additionally, night matches, along with domed stadiums like SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, AT&T Stadium in Dallas, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, offer some relief from the heat.

The World Cup final is set for East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19 at 3 p.m. ET, a time expected to bring peak temperatures. As fans prepare for an exciting tournament, FIFA continues to focus on safety and enjoyment for all involved.