The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off today with Mexico vs South Africa in Mexico City, but Irish viewers on RTÉ2 were left frustrated when the broadcaster cut to commercial ads during the mandatory drinks break. FIFA introduced 3-minute hydration pauses in each half for all 104 matches — and allowed broadcasters to sell ad time during the window. While ITV and Telemundo chose to keep an uninterrupted feed, RTÉ confirmed it would air ads during top-tier games. Fans called it the Americanisation of football.