At recent World Cup matches, mandatory three-minute hydration breaks have drawn criticism from fans, some of whom have attempted to use the pauses to quickly purchase refreshments. These breaks, enforced at the 22nd and 67th minutes of each game regardless of weather, have sparked frustration and generated debate over their practicality and impact on the flow of play.

During England’s match against Panama in New Jersey and Austria’s game with Algeria in Kansas City on Saturday, supporters tested the feasibility of completing what they called “beer runs” within the allotted 180 seconds. The results were mixed but suggested that, while challenging, it is possible to leave the seat, reach a concession stand, and return in time to avoid missing game action.

Adrian Carrera, president of the Panama Supporters Association, which brought a contingent of 1,600 fans, said his attempt took notably longer. He described spending eight minutes during the first break due to long queues and indicated he would avoid trying the run again. Meanwhile, at MetLife Stadium’s opposite end, Tom O’Dea from Oldham, England, reported he missed six minutes of play during his first-half attempt because many others were making similar efforts. O’Dea noted he had better success during England’s previous match in Boston, where an easier concourse layout and a friend’s pre-purchased beer made a rapid return feasible.

Weather conditions also impacted the attempts. Liam Nixon, attending with his son at MetLife Stadium, abandoned plans to leave their back-row seats for a drink due to heavy rain and concerns over safety. Conversely, in dry conditions at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, the challenge was more manageable. David Bulgerin, supporting Austria, said there was “plenty of time” to get a beer during the first hydration break, though he criticized the interruptions themselves as “atrocious.” Another Austrian fan, Milo Deitemeyer, recorded himself completing the run in just under three minutes.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the hydration breaks as a necessary sporting measure without commercial motivation. Nevertheless, broadcasters in the United States and elsewhere capitalize on the pauses to air advertisements. England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, expressed dissatisfaction with the stoppages, suggesting they disrupt the “identity” of the match.

The hydration breaks have proven a contentious addition to World Cup games, balancing player welfare with concerns over fan experience and the continuity of play. England supporters, less accustomed to such interruptions, may also face a cultural adjustment; alcohol consumption near the pitch is prohibited in top domestic competitions, limiting opportunities for similar mid-game refreshment runs at home.