For the first time in World Cup history, hydration breaks have become a mandatory feature of every match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Regardless of whether games are played in extreme heat, inside climate-controlled stadiums, or in cooler evening conditions, referees are required to stop play twice per match for three-minute breaks.

Officially, the policy exists to protect player welfare and ensure equal conditions across all matches. Unofficially, however, the breaks have triggered one of the tournament’s biggest off-field debates.

Are hydration breaks genuinely about player safety, or have they quietly become valuable commercial inventory in football’s biggest event?

FIFA’s Position: “This Is Not A Financial Issue”

Facing growing criticism from fans and players, FIFA president Gianni Infantino directly addressed the controversy.

“There is no additional revenue for FIFA, as all commercial agreements were signed well in advance,” Infantino said.

“This is not a financial issue for us. For us, it is purely a sporting matter.”

According to FIFA, the breaks were introduced primarily because of the climate challenges posed by a summer tournament spread across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Infantino argued that the policy is about consistency rather than temperature alone.

“What matters even more to us is ensuring that all teams, in every match, are playing under the same conditions.”

He added: “We want to ensure equal conditions for everyone and that’s why these breaks are implemented in every match.”

Why Fans Remain Skeptical?

The skepticism stems from one unavoidable reality.

Television broadcasters have quickly turned hydration breaks into advertising windows.

In countries such as the United States, commercial breaks regularly appear during the stoppages. Industry estimates suggest a 30-second World Cup advertising slot on Fox Sports costs between $200,000 and $300,000 during regular matches, rising significantly for USA games and knockout fixtures.

With four advertising opportunities potentially available during every match, the breaks have created hundreds of additional commercial slots throughout the tournament.

That has led many supporters to wonder whether FIFA is indirectly benefiting even if it is not directly receiving extra payments.

Critics argue that while FIFA may not earn additional revenue from pre-existing contracts, broadcasters and commercial partners are undoubtedly extracting more value from the tournament.

The optics have led some fans to compare football’s hydration breaks to timeouts commonly seen in American sports.

Players with divided opinions

Not everyone inside the game is convinced the breaks are necessary in every match.

Several leading players have openly questioned the universal approach.

French superstar Kylian Mbappe has reportedly expressed concerns that the stoppages interrupt momentum, particularly when one team is dominating possession and building pressure.

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has similarly suggested that conditions should be assessed on a case-by-case basis rather than applying the rule universally.

Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans also questioned whether breaks are needed during matches played in cooler conditions. For many players, the issue is not hydration itself but the loss of rhythm in a sport built around continuous flow.

Coaches Have Discovered An Unexpected Advantage

While some players dislike the interruptions, many managers have quickly recognised their strategic value.

Hydration breaks effectively provide coaches with two additional opportunities per half to communicate directly with players during live matches.

England manager Thomas Tuchel admitted the pauses have had a bigger influence than he expected. “They change the characteristic of the match more than I thought.” Mexico coach Javier Aguirre has embraced them as football’s version of an official timeout.

France manager Didier Deschamps has gone even further, describing the breaks as turning matches into something resembling four quarters rather than two halves. The result is a subtle but significant shift in football tactics.

Managers can now reorganise shape, deliver instructions and adjust game plans without waiting for half-time.

The Commercial Reality

The truth likely lies somewhere between FIFA’s explanation and the concerns of critics.

There is currently no evidence that FIFA negotiated hydration breaks specifically to generate new revenue streams. Infantino’s claim that commercial agreements were signed before the tournament appears credible.

However, that does not mean the breaks lack commercial value.

Broadcasters are undeniably benefiting from the extra advertising inventory. Sponsors gain additional visibility. Networks gain more flexibility in scheduling commercials.

Even if FIFA is not directly earning extra money from the stoppages, the wider World Cup ecosystem is monetising them. That distinction may be technically correct from FIFA’s standpoint, but it has done little to silence criticism.

A Rule that may outlast 2026

The larger question is whether hydration breaks remain a temporary solution or become a permanent feature of major tournaments.

Climate concerns are unlikely to disappear. Summer temperatures continue to rise, and future World Cups may face similar challenges.

At the same time, coaches are discovering tactical advantages, broadcasters are finding commercial benefits, and governing bodies are seeing operational value in standardised match management.

For now, FIFA insists the breaks exist solely to protect players and create equal conditions.

But as television networks continue to sell advertising around those stoppages and coaches increasingly use them as strategic timeouts, the debate over whether hydration breaks are about welfare, tactics or commerce is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

Scotland manager Steve Clarke abandoned his post-match interview with BBC presenter Eilidh Barbour after just 23 seconds following a 3-0 loss to Brazil which leaves his team’s World Cup campaign in the balance.

Vinicius Junior scored twice and Matheus Cunha once as the Scots were swept aside in Miami primarily due to their own defensive mistakes.

That leaves them in third place in Group C with a goal difference of -3 and means they must wait for other results to see if they have made it into the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.

Clarke, who has masterminded Scotland’s path to the World Cup and had high hopes of making history with his squad, was visibly emotional when speaking to Barbour following the final whistle.

He was asked for his thoughts on the game and provided an eight word response as he disappointment showed on his face.

“We made it difficult for ourselves, that’s it,” Clarke replied.

Two more questions followed with Barbour asking if it was frustrating that Brazil didn’t need to work hard to score and Clarke agreed saying: “We gave them the goals, we gave them the game they wanted. Disappointing.”

When reminded that Scotland now face a waiting game now and asked for his thoughts on what is to come the Scotland boss responded: “I don’t even want to think about that. Sorry, I don’t even think about that.”

He then walked away before the interview could be concluded properly.

Clarke later spoke again with Barbour and explained that mistakes cost his team tonight and revealed his thoughts on Scotland’s future in the competition.

“You see their quality in the final third of the pitch, let’s be honest, the best team won,” he said. “Unbelievable, the shift the players put in, in that humidity, outstanding. We have to be better, if we want to compete at this level.

“We started four or five minutes, moving the ball nicely, settled, then we made a mistake, you can’t do that at this level. Only Scotland can get a winnable first game, then No. 5 and No. 6 in the world next two games, that’s the level we’re at.

“For sure, I think we’re going home,” he concluded.

Scotland midfielder John McGinn was more forthcoming in an interview of his own and explained how the players were ‘gutted’ by the result having fallen short on the night.

“Gutted obviously. We lose poor goals at poor times against a team that can punish you with quality,” he told BBC One. “We had a few chances but we’ve got to wait now. The lads are gutted, we fell short on quality tonight but we gave it absolutely everything. The lads are empty now.

“It’s unlikely [to qualify] but we’ll wait and see. In moments they [Brazil] hurt you. They allowed us to have the ball and at this level if you make mistakes you get punished. We probably were fortunate to have the [second] goal disallowed.

“It’s a bit raw at the minute but we appreciate the support of the fans, we know it’s difficult to be there. Hopefully the journey is not over and if we have to go again, we will go again.”

Day 2 of the 2026 NBA Draft begins Wednesday night from Brooklyn with the New York Knicks on the clock at No. 31 and several notable college players remaining on the board. 

Among those who didn’t hear their names called in the first round are Duke’s Isaiah Evans, North Carolina’s Henri Veesaar and Arkansas’ Meleek Thomas. They shouldn’t have to wait too long to hear their names called on Wednesday.

Other big-name players expected to be drafted in the second round are Purdue’s Braden Smith and BYU’s Richie Saunders. Smith set the NCAA’s all-time assist record during his senior season, while Saunders suffered a torn ACL earlier this calendar year and is recovering from the injury.

2026 NBA Draft grades: Updating pick-by-pick analysis from AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer through Round 2

Adam Finkelstein

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The Washington Wizards are set to make the final selection of the draft at No. 60. On Day 1, Washington opened the draft by picking BYU star AJ Dybantsa over Darryn Peterson.

As Round 2 unfolds, CBS Sports will be handing out team grades in real time with individual selections graded by Director of Basketball Scouting Adam Finkelstein.

2026 NBA Draft essentials

Atlanta Hawks: B

After trading away Trae Young last season, the Hawks retooled their roster. And the theme of their draft so far has been defense. By landing Flemings at No. 8, Atlanta is adding one of the quickest guards in the draft who also profiles as a two-way player who is more than capable of running the second unit and has experience playing with more veteran players, as he did with Houston this past season. At No. 23, the Hawks drafted one of the best defenders in the class in Ejiofor, though he feels like a bit of a reach at this spot. Flemings and Ejiofor will both likely start their NBA career as reserves. However, their ability to impact the game defensively will allow both of them to see the floor.

Next pick: 57 (from Boston)

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Boston Celtics: B

Cenac, the Houston big man, is considered one of the more raw prospects of the class, but has the tools to be an impactful two-way player at the next level. He will go to a situation in Boston where he won’t be asked to do much right away and can take advantage of the Celtics‘ player development. It’s an ideal fit for both parties. On the other hand, Mitchell, after four years of college, can be a plug-and-play defender at the NBA level. His shot is a work in progress.

Brooklyn Nets: B

The Nets have had a busy week. After trading for Julius Randle on Monday, the Nets got to work on the first night of the draft by taking a guard with one of the highest ceilings in the class (Brown Jr. ) and a veteran forward who is one of the best passers in the class (Jefferson). The Nets made five picks in the first round last year. And despite that haul including three guards, Brooklyn picked another at No. 6 this year in Brown Jr., who should fit with Egor Dёmin – the No. 8 pick in 2025 – in the backcourt. Brown is considered one of the best shooters in the class, while Dёmin went from almost a non-shooter at BYU to generating a healthy chunk of his scoring from beyond the arc. Brooklyn needs talent. These players check those boxes.

Next pick: 43 (from LA Clippers)

Charlotte Hornets: B+

The biggest need for Charlotte this offseason was finding a center of the future that fits with its core of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel. The 6-foot-10 Steinbach checks a lot of the boxes Charlotte was looking for. He had some of the best hands in college basketball and is a strong rebounder. The Hornets were one team that could’ve looked at the veteran free agent or trade market for a center. Instead, it drafted the best big man on the board. Last season, Knueppel broke the rookie record for the most 3-pointers made in a season. Although Anderson might have a hard time breaking that record, he will have a chance to lead all rookies in makes from beyond the arc after shooting 41.5% from 3 on 260 attempts as a sophomore at Texas Tech. He is a dynamic shooter who can provide scoring off the bench when Ball heads to the bench.

Chicago Bulls: A-

The Bulls made a surprising trade on the eve of the draft by plucking Nic Claxton away from Brooklyn. Claxton should presumably be a Day 1 starter at center for new coach Tiago Splitter. His likely frontcourt running mate next season will be Wilson after Chicago selected him at No. 4. Wilson is a jump-out-of-the-gym forward who can be a two-way game wrecker for a Bulls franchise in need of a star. While Wilson, who has the upside to be a legitimate superstar if he improves his jumper, was the easiest pick of the night, Chicago added another building block in 6-foot-8 wing Dailyn Swain at No. 15. The former Texas star can be an impactful two-way player off the bench as a rookie, but is a bit of a reach here. Swain was No. 25 on CBS Sports’ final prospect rankings. 

Cleveland Cavaliers: A-

34. Meleek Thomas, SG, Arkansas | Grade: A-

Cleveland traded back from pick No. 29 on Day 1 of the draft and selected a player in Thomas who was widely expected to be drafted in the first round. Thomas is a tough shot-maker who needs to be more efficient and reliable on the defensive end, but he will add shooting to a high-priced Cleveland roster that saved money by trading out of the first round.

Dallas Mavericks: C+

The single most important goal for Dallas this offseason was to give Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg a long-term running mate. By selecting Johnson, the Mavs added toughness, familiarity and size in a forward who played for new Mavs coach Dusty May last season at Michigan. There was debate about who would be the first Michigan player off the board, and it ended up being Johnson — who was one of the biggest risers of the draft cycle. Flagg and Johnson will be a terrifying defensive duo to face. De Larrea, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard from Spain who played important minutes for a Valencia team that was one of the EuroLeague’s best, should fit well as a complementary piece around Flagg and Kyrie Irving.

Next pick: 48 (from Phoenix via Washington)

Denver Nuggets: B+

35. Trevon Brazile, PF, Arkansas | Grade: B+

The Nuggets are in store for a busy offseason, headlined by the pending restricted free agency of Peyton Watson. If the Nuggets lose Watson, Brazile could be a cost-effective replacement. He’s an athletic big man who can space the floor, catch lobs and cause havoc on the defensive end.

Next pick: 49 (from Atlanta via Brooklyn and Golden State)

Detroit Pistons: B

17. Ebuka Okorie, PG, Stanford | Grade: B

The Pistons made a bold move to jump up a few spots — specifically, ahead of the Toronto Raptors at No. 19 — to secure one of the top point guards in the class and provide valuable insurance for Cade Cunningham. Okorie, who averaged 23.6 points per game as a freshman at Stanford, is quick and offers a different dynamic than the Pistons’ star guard. There will be opportunities to play those two together.

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Golden State Warriors: B-

11. Yaxel Lendeborg, PF, Michigan | Grade: B-

The No. 1 priority for the Warriors this offseason is to add talent next to Steph Curry. With Jimmy Butler out for the foreseeable future after suffering an injury last season, the Warriors, who are in a win-now mode, need help on both ends of the floor. Insert Lendeborg, who is one of the oldest prospects in the class (he turns 24 in September) but also one of the best. His blend of size, athleticism, and two-way ability should offer immediate help for Curry, but we can’t help but wonder if the Warriors will regret passing on a player like 19-year-old Nate Ament as their aging roster turns over.

Next pick: 54 (from Los Angeles Lakers via Toronto, Miami and Cleveland)

Houston Rockets: B

31. Bruce Thornton, PG, Ohio State | Grade: B

The Rockets’ biggest need heading into the offseason was 3-point shooting. It was part of the reason why they lost to the Lakers in the first round of the playoffs. In Thornton, the Rockets are adding an efficient guard who can run a second unit and add shooting to the lineup. Thornton, Ohio State’s all-time leading scorer, checks the main box the Rockets were looking for.

Next pick: 55 (from New York)

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Indiana Pacers: B

38. Braden Smith, PG, Purdue | Grade: B

Indiana has had success developing point guards in its system. Smith was one of the best pure floor generals throughout his entire college career at Purdue and will have a chance to crack the rotation immediately in his home state. He also offers insurance and depth behind Tyrese Haliburton, who missed the entire 2025-26 season due to a torn Achilles.

Los Angeles Clippers: B+

After trading for Darius Garland at last season’s trade deadline and getting lucky at last month’s draft lottery, the Clippers were in a position to take the best player available at No. 5. Although they could’ve opted for someone like Darius Acuff, picking Wagler signals a vote of confidence for Garland’s immediate future in Los Angeles. Wagler is one of the best shooters in the class and can play off the ball. Garland should dominate a majority of the on-ball reps next season, but Wagler should get his fair share of them when Garland is off the floor. Garland and Wagler will be able to co-exist in the backcourt. That probably wouldn’t be the case for someone like Acuff or Kingston Flemings. Miller, meanwhile, is a high-upside pick who can rebound, score and defend. At 6-foot-11, he is very mobile for his size and has the tools to be a versatile defender.

Next pick: 52 (from Cleveland)

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Los Angeles Lakers: B+

24. Cameron Carr, SG, Baylor | Grade: B+

The Lakers moved up one spot in the draft in a deal with the Knicks to fill a clear team need for more athleticism. Carr is one of the best athletes in this class. His slide all the way to pick No. 24 was surprising after a very strong combine. He will add shooting and size to the Lakers in what should be a very important summer for the franchise.

Next pick: 56 (from Chicago)

Memphis Grizzlies: A

The Grizzlies are an organization that values college production. It makes sense why the franchise made the no-brainer decision to select Boozer, who was the most productive player in the country last season. However, Memphis’ second pick of the first round — after trading back twice from No. 16 — is the opposite of that. Lopez, a native of Mexico who most recently played in the NBL in Australia, is a raw prospect who will need time to develop at the NBA level. He will likely begin as a rotation piece, while Boozer should immediately slot into Memphis’ lineup as the starting power forward next to Zach Edey in the frontcourt. Boozer is capable of playing in a five-out offense because of his ability to stretch the floor and be a playmaker out of the low or high block. Saunders, who is coming off an ACL tear, can make an impact at the next level with his shooting whenever he’s healthy.

Miami Heat: B

37. Ryan Conwell, SG, Louisville | Grade: B

After making what should be the biggest splash of the offseason by acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo, the next step for Miami is finding cheap, cost-controlled players in the draft and on the open market. Conwell fits that bill. The lefty is a volume 3-point shooter who also defends at a high level. He will be a plug-and-play rotation piece for the Heat.

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Milwaukee Bucks: B+

After trading away franchise legend Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks are in full rebuild mode. Although Milwaukee acquired Tyler Herro in the trade with the Miami Heat, it’s safe to say every spot in the starting lineup will be up for grabs. By picking Burries at No. 10, the Bucks are adding one of the highest floor players in the draft. Burries is a two-way, off-ball guard who is a plus 3-point shooter. Another popular connection throughout the draft process was Ament to the Bucks, who grabbed him at No. 13 — a pick acquired from the Heat in the Giannis deal. There’s a natural connection there, as Bucks owner Jimmy Haslam is a graduate of Tennessee, where Ament played his lone college basketball season. Ament has drawn mixed opinions. By going to the Bucks, there won’t be pressure for him to immediately succeed. Ament will have time to develop after having an inefficient freshman campaign in the SEC.

Minnesota Timberwolves: A-

33. Isaiah Evans, SG, Duke | Grade: A-

With Evans, the Wolves got a first-round talent in the second round in a pick acquired in the Julius Randle trade. Evans went from strictly a catch-and-shoot guy during his freshman year at Duke to an established No. 2 option as a sophomore. He will add shooting off the bench for Minnesota. He is capable of scaling his role up or down but needs to get stronger.

Next pick: 59 (from San Antonio via Indiana)

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New Orleans Pelicans

Own pick No. 58 (from Detroit via New York, Brooklyn, Phoenix, Orlando and LA Clippers).

New York Knicks: B-

39. Jack Kayil, SG, Germany | Grade: B-

The Knicks have been (aggressively) trading back, presumably in an effort to duck the second apron. Finally, New York made its first pick of the night by drafting Kayil, who was originally committed to Gonzaga before staying in the draft. He would have made more money in college, but now gets a shot to join the defending champions.

Next picks: 47 and 53 (from Houston)

Oklahoma City Thunder: A-

One of the most popular connections throughout the pre-draft process was Mara to Oklahoma City. Not only did OKC land Mara to fill one of its biggest needs, but it didn’t have to trade up to do so. We saw in the Western Conference Finals how much defense can swing a game. With the 7-foot-3 Mara, OKC is getting one of the best shot blockers in the class. You can call him the “Wemby stopper.” Oklahoma City doesn’t have many weaknesses on its deep roster, but this is definitely one that has been filled. The Thunder traded up with Memphis to secure their second player of the night in Stirtz, one of the most productive guards in the country. Stirtz had quite the journey from Division II to being the starting point guard on an Elite Eight team. Drafting cost-controlled players has been part of the Sam Presti blueprint for years.

Next pick: 41 (from Miami)

Orlando Magic

Own pick No. 46.

Philadelphia 76ers: B+

22. Labaron Philon, PG, Alabama | Grade: B+

There are always prospects who slide a little further down the board than projected. It happened a few years ago when the 76ers drafted Tyrese Maxey at No. 21. It happened this year with the 76ers selecting the best player on the board in Philon, who should add shooting and playmaking to the second unit behind Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. 

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Phoenix Suns: A-

30. Koa Peat, PF, Arizona | Grade: A-

Peat had to wait until the final pick of the first round to hear his name called, but he will be staying in the state of Arizona after the Suns traded up to No. 30 in a deal with the Mavericks. Peat is a talented, high-motor prospect, but concerns about his jumper resulted in a slide all the way down to 30. It’s worth the swing if it pans out.

Next pick: 47 (from Philadelphia via Houston and Oklahoma City)

Portland Trail Blazers

Own no picks.

Sacramento Kings: A-

The biggest need for Sacramento heading into draft night was finding its point guard of the future. And after the Clippers and Nets passed on Darius Acuff Jr., Sacramento didn’t hesitate to make him the pick. Acuff had been linked to Sacramento throughout the draft process and will slot in immediately as the Kings‘ starter at the point. Acuff is an offensive engine who will add scoring and playmaking to a Kings roster in need of a serious facelift this offseason. The Kings had also been linked to Karaban throughout the draft cycle after he worked out with the team. Karaban should be a steady presence with his all-around skill set — passing, basketball IQ, and outside shooting.

Next pick: 45 (from Charlotte via San Antonio, Atlanta and New York)

San Antonio Spurs: B+

The Spurs have a loaded roster that just went to the NBA Finals, but you can never have enough defense and size — even if you employ Victor Wembanyama. The defensive duo of Wemby and Quaintance has the potential to cause havoc. But Quaintance was limited to just four games at Kentucky because of a knee injury. If he’s healthy, this might be the steal of the draft. Reed is a traditional back-to-the-basket big man who will provide insurance for Wembanyama and be ready to contribute if Quaintance’s health holds him back.

Next picks: 42 (from Portland via New Orleans) and 44 (from Miami via Indiana)

Toronto Raptors: B-

19. Allen Graves, PF, Santa Clara | Grade: B-

The Raptors’ needs this offseason are at point guard and center. Despite that, they chose Graves, who is considered the analytic darling of the class after his freshman season at Santa Clara. The Raptors are very deep at forward, especially after drafting Collin Murray-Boyles last season in the lottery. On paper, this pick doesn’t make a ton of sense.

Next pick: 50

Utah Jazz: A

2. Darryn Peterson, PG, Kansas | Grade: A

While there was speculation Utah could select Cameron Boozer at No. 2, the fit with Peterson is much cleaner. Peterson should slot immediately into Utah’s lineup as the starting shooting guard next to Keyonte George and offer versatility because of his ability to play on or off the ball.

Although the Jazz have star power in their starting lineup — which includes George, Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr., — Peterson is the kind of player who can elevate a franchise to new heights. Peterson primarily played off the ball at Kansas after an up-and-down freshman season that was dominated by headlines about missing 11 games due to cramping. Still, Peterson has the ceiling to be the best player and scorer in the class and should give Utah a potential 1A option down the line.

Washington Wizards: A

1. AJ Dybantsa, SF, BYU | Grade: A

After winning the NBA Draft Lottery for the first time since 2010, Washington took the next step toward getting out of the rebuilding stage by drafting Dybantsa. The Wizards had an interesting choice to make between Dybantsa and Peterson at No. 1. In the end, Washington went with the BYU product, who had been mocked at the top spot for several weeks. 

Dybantsa is set to join a core in Washington that includes Trae Young, Anthony Davis, Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, Bub Carrington and Will Riley. After Young signed a four-year, $212 million extension with Washington earlier this week, it made the pick more likely in Dybantsa’s favor. 

While Peterson might be a better fit on paper for Washington, Dybantsa offers a completely different skill set. Dybantsa has the upside to be a 1A in the NBA. He is an alpha scorer who will elevate the floor and ceiling of this Washington roster.

Next picks: 51 (from Minnesota via Detroit and New York) and 60 (from Oklahoma City via San Antonio and Miami)

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy faces a very pivotal year in 2026, his third season as a pro after Minnesota drafted him as the franchise quarterback solution in 2024. The club also has Kyler Murray in the mix to compete with McCarthy for the top job this summer, so much so that some have wondered if McCarthy has played his last game in Minnesota as a starter.

According to ESPN, McCarthy has done no such thing — and he might even win the battle over Murray.

Vikings QB Competition Has Room for a McCarthy Surge

Dan Graziano: Don’t Rule McCarthy Out Just Yet

Graziano of ESPN sized up hot takes around the NFL this week, evaluating whether they were overreactions. Along the way, he chimed in on McCarthy’s future.

“J.J. McCarthy has started his last game for the Vikings. Verdict: OVERREACTION. McCarthy could prove to be the better option in camp. If that happens, the players on the roster will see that and buy into the decision. You could make the case that the best outcome for the Vikings is for McCarthy to win the job and become the player they thought he could be when they moved up to draft him,” Graziano opined.

“But even if that doesn’t happen in camp, Murray is far from a perfect solution, which is why the Cardinals are paying him $36 million this year to play for someone else. If McCarthy reacts to being thrust into a competition the way the Vikings hope he does, he could end up starting games for them this season.”

The Vikings have not had a genuine quarterback battle in a long time; the stage is set for July and August.

Graziano continued, “He’s also under contract for 2026, whereas Murray is not (and Murray’s contract includes a no-franchise tag provision). Sure, it’s possible Murray thrives in O’Connell’s offense while McCarthy crumbles.”

“But either outcome is far from a sure thing. There’s a long way to go before the start of the 2026 season, let alone the end of it. And on some level at least, the Vikings hope there’s still a long way to go in McCarthy’s NFL story.”

Some Momentum in the Battle?

When the very first week of OTAs got underway, McCarthy turned heads with comments that some perceived as bizarre. He said welcoming Murray into the mix felt like a high school situation, while Murray offered a more diplomatic reply to the same question.

Thereafter, when action actually translated to the field, McCarthy and Murray traded productive outings, with McCarthy even gaining momentum in a battle that most assume Murray will win. Murray threw some interceptions, and McCarthy looked sturdier.

It’s the cycle of a quarterback competition — ups and downs — and go-time at training camp is about five weeks away. Murray remains the frontrunner, but McCarthy isn’t a chump.

Teammates Believe in McCarthy

Vikings right tackle O’Neill said about McCarthy in early May, “Even through some of the low points, I mean, we were 4-8 at one point last year. We rattled off five straight. Like, guys believe in him, and guys wanted us to figure it out and be better as an offense. You hear the term ‘lose the locker room.’ He had the locker room more than anybody I’d seen ever.”

“You want to root for him. You want to do well, and you want him to keep taking those next steps. If I was judged after my first 10 games in the NFL, I’m not playing right now. There’s a part of it where he’s still so fresh, and he’s only going to continue to get better. The whole attitude from us was, ‘How do we go there as an offense together?’”

McCarthy’s former teammate, Adam Thielen, echoed the sentiment, saying a few weeks ago, “He’s got all the traits to be a successful quarterback in this league. He has the skills. He has the strong arm. He has the mindset that not a lot of guys have, has this dog mentality that everyone wants to find. So, I love those two aspects of him. I think he’s a guy who loves football; he loves his teammates.”

“You feel that in the locker room with him. Now, was there some things that he needs to work on? Yes. Absolutely. He knows that. And I think he’s gone to the drawing board this offseason, I think he’s taken feedback from coach O’Connell, and coach, I think, was very candid with him of ‘This is what you need to improve on.’”

O’Neill and Thielen wouldn’t make that stuff up. As much as possible in a quarterback battle, McCarthy has the support of his teammates.

Besting Murray Still a Daunting Task

In the end, let’s face it: Murray has more experience, and he didn’t sign with the Vikings to play backup quarterback. ESPN can remain hopeful about McCarthy, and that’s fine, but Murray will likely be the Week 1 starter.

A more realistic best-case scenario is for McCarthy to shine if Murray gets hurt — which happens to Murray. The former Cardinal has missed about one-quarter of his career starts; there’s no reason to believe he’d suddenly become durable and healthy in Minnesota.

When that time comes, McCarthy will have his big moment. Theoretically, he could ball out, and the Vikings’ original draft plan from 2024 would just be on track.

Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker

Team USA’s last group stage match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup doesn’t matter in terms of winning Group D – they’ve already done it after victories in their first two matches against Paraguay and Australia.

But the status of Christian Pulisic remains a topic of conversation for the USMNT, as he didn’t play against Australia after suffering a calf injury that kept him out of the second half of their opening match against Paraguay.

But Pulisic told FOX Sports’ Jenny Taft just how he’s felt in the practices leading up to the final group stage match against Türkiye.

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Christian Pulisic had an assist in the first half of the USMNT World Cup opener against Paraguay. (Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)

“Yeah, I’m feeling great. I think the team’s feeling great. I’ve been able to join the team the last few days, and I’m feeling healthy and ready to go for this game,” he said.

That’s certainly a good thing to hear for the USMNT, and even more so when Pulisic answered Taft’s follow-up question: Is he 100%?

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“Yeah, I would say so,” he responded. “I would say definitely yesterday I felt very close, and I would say 100%.”

The question now becomes whether head coach Mauricio Pochettino wants to risk playing Pulisic in a game that means nothing in terms of their spot in the knockout round.

One side of the argument is why risk another injury? The United States has done a fantastic job winning both matches to begin the tournament, and the real game that matters will be the Round of 32, where it becomes win-or-go-home territory. Team USA will need Pulisic 100% for certain that match and moving forward.

Christian Pulisic of the United States celebrates after an own goal by Damian Bobadilla of Paraguay during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match at Los Angeles Stadium on June 12, 2026. (Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)

Then again, Pulisic has played only a single half in this tournament, and it would bode well for him to get some game action against an opponent rather than facing his teammates in a practice setting. Momentum and comfortability, even with a World Cup veteran like Pulisic, would do “Captain America” well to get going before the Round of 32.

Taft added that players have yet to be informed whether they will play. Pochettino may also need to be cautious with the four players carrying yellow cards: Antonee Robinson, Chris Richards, Folarin Balogun and Tyler Adams. Another booking would result in a one-match suspension, causing them to miss the Round of 32.

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Pulisic has dealt with injuries prior to the World Cup as well, having not played much since early May. He had three substitute appearances for his club, AC Milan, and didn’t play a full match in three U.S. friendlies leading into the World Cup.

Christian Pulisic of the United States participates in a training session for the 2026 World Cup at Great Sports Park in Irvine, Calif., on June 17, 2026. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Pulisic, however, has said that minutes do not affect his “sharpness,” and we’ll see whether the 100% healthy star is utilized by Pochettino on Thursday night in Los Angeles.

After their 3-1 win on Wednesday, it appears the United States will be facing off against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.

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The fate of India’s ambitious 2036 Olympic bid will be known in mid 2029 after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved the addition of a Strategic Dialogue phase in the host selection process, during which the candidate nations will have to provide “core financial guarantees” among other requirements.

At the global body’s 146th Session in Lausanne on Wednesday, the IOC’s Future Host Commission chair, former Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, proposed the introduction of the new phase, which was approved by the member nations.

“Potential hosts wanted greater clarity. All stakeholders wanted greater transparency,” said Grabar-Kitrovic, adding that the aim is to announce the 2036 host by middle of 2029.

“Interested Parties will be short-listed for ‘Strategic Dialogue’ in March 2027 and will have to answer the Future Host Questionnaire and submit core financial guarantees before being considered for the final evaluation stage, known as Targetted Dialogue,” the IOC later stated.

The candidate cities will also have to meet the criteria related to cost control, and clear time-lines for completion of project milestones among other aspects.

India is currently in the Continuous Dialogue stage with the IOC after submitting its Letter of Intent to host the 2036 Games in 2024.

The next phase will now be Strategic Dialogue instead of Targetted Dialogue, which will remain the final phase of decision-making process even in the revamped structure.

Under the new process, IOC’s Executive Board will short-list Interested Parties from the Continuous Dialogue pool to enter Strategic Dialogue in 2027. India faces its biggest competition from Qatar while bids are also expected from Turkey and South Africa.

“During this new transitional stage, they will be expected to provide an initial response to the Future Host Questionnaire and core financial guarantees,” the IOC stated.

The Future Host Commission will also make site visits to the proposed host cities.

After the Strategic Dialogue phase, the Targetted Dialogue will begin in 2028.

“Preferred host will have to update their submission. They will also have to submit full set of guarantees. The final decision on the host for the 2036 Games will be taken at the session in mid 2029,” Grabar-Kitarovic stated.

“The prospective hosts will also have to submit a full set of guarantees, to give maximum legal and financial security.”

At the end of the Targetted Dialogue, the IOC Members will receive a report from the Future Host Commission. Following this, in mid-2029, the IOC Executive Board will select Preferred Hosts to be “put forward for election by the IOC Session to become the host of the 2036 Olympic Games.”

“Throughout the process, there will be regular touch-points between the IOC membership, the Future Host Commission and the Interested Parties or Preferred Hosts. These will include presentations at IOC Sessions, and briefings at other times.”

The Olympic host selection process was put on hold last year by IOC chief Kirsty Coventry, citing the need for greater dialogue with potential hosts following feedback from member nations. India is aiming to host the 2036 Games in Ahmedabad.

Morocco beat Haiti 4-2 on Wednesday in Atlanta in a pulsating World Cup 2026 Group C clash. Haiti stunned the Atlas Lions early on when Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s free kick set up the opening goal after a defensive lapse, before Achraf Hakimi levelled from close range following sustained Moroccan pressure.

The match exploded before the break as Wilson Isidor produced a stunning long-range strike in the 43rd minute to restore Haiti’s lead. However, Morocco responded immediately in stoppage time, with Achraf Hakimi involved in the build-up before squaring for Ismaël Saibari, who finished into the bottom-left corner to make it 2-2 at half-time.

After the restart, Morocco gradually took control, producing a wave of chances through Hakimi and Bilal El Khannouss. Soufiane Rahimi eventually put the Atlas Lions ahead in the 78th minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the box after sustained pressure from a corner.

Haiti pushed late on but were exposed in the final minutes, with Gessime Yassine sealing the win after a quick reaction inside the penalty area to complete Morocco’s comeback and secure a hard-fought victory.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)