Do you know your 'sweat score'? The rise of hydration tech
The 2026 World Cup has introduced mandatory hydration breaks, sparking debate over whether they are necessary for health or merely a tool for increased advertising. Meanwhile, the consumer market for hydration-tracking technology is expanding in response to climate-related heat concerns.
Why it matters
The intersection of climate change, public health, and commercial technology is creating new consumer trends and regulatory challenges in sports.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The 2026 World Cup is the first to have mandatory hydration breaks in every game
The article presents multiple viewpoints on the hydration breaks and provides scientific context for the tech trend.
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