Coca-Cola hails World Cup hydration breaks as it lifts annual forecasts

July 28 (Reuters) - While many fans complained about World Cup hydration breaks slowing the pace of soccer games, top sponsor Coca-Cola said it was pleased with the boost to sales for its energy drinks that drove strong quarterly results and helped lift annual targets.

The beverage giant's second-quarter comparable revenue rose about 6% to $13.37 billion, beating estimates of $13.16 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG.

The company's shares rose 1.8% in premarket trading. They have risen about 20% so far this year, and have outperformed rival PepsiCo, which has suffered from weak snacking demand in the United States in recent quarters.

Coca-Cola expects 2026 organic revenue growth of about 5%, compared with its prior target of 4% to 5% growth.