12.06.2026 15:50
The advertisement breaks implemented for the first time in the Mexico-South Africa match, lasting three minutes per half, drew backlash from football fans. The total six minutes of ad breaks during the match sparked controversy.
In the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup jointly hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, Mexico faced South Africa. The host team started the tournament with a victory, defeating their opponents 2-0 with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez.
A FIRST IN FOOTBALL
The development that overshadowed the match was the new timeout system implemented by FIFA for the first time. During a water break called in the 25th minute, the game stopped for approximately three minutes, and broadcasters switched to commercials. The same practice was repeated in the 69th minute of the second half. Thus, a total of six minutes of commercial breaks were taken during the match.
BACKLASH FROM FOOTBALL FANS
The new practice sparked controversy among football fans. While many fans argued that the flow of the game was disrupted, some viewers compared it to television timeouts in basketball. The switch to commercial breaks during the match was one of the most criticized aspects by fans.
AT THE CENTER OF DEBATE
The system, implemented on the very first day of the World Cup, became one of the most talked-about topics of the tournament. Football fans are curious whether the practice will continue for the rest of the tournament.