The Rugby Football League announced that every match this weekend will feature two 90‑second hydration pauses to protect players in the sweltering heatwave. Wednesday set a UK record for the hottest June day and Thursday could eclipse it, prompting school closures and travel advisories. Officials say the breaks are essential given the extreme conditions and public health concerns.

Breaks will occur at the 20‑minute and 60‑minute marks, each lasting 90 seconds. If a try is scored or an injury stoppage falls near those points, the referee adds a further 60 seconds. Match commissioners—or referees where no commissioner is present—decide if temperature justifies the pause, with extra stops possible at the 30‑ and 70‑minute points and water and electrolyte provision before, during and after play.

Thursday’s opening Super League fixture at Warrington sees Catalans face the home side as temperatures are forecast to hit 30 °C. The RFL mirrors the summer FIFA World Cup protocol, where similar hydration pauses have drawn criticism for extending stoppage time in covered venues. Nonetheless, every match this weekend will observe the prescribed breaks, ensuring player safety under the heatwave.