The article delves into the significance of fracture mechanics in advancing hydrogen pipeline design and the broader energy transition. It emphasizes the need for global collaboration among academia, industry, and regulatory bodies to facilitate the shift towards a hydrogen-based energy economy. The author reflects on their journey into fracture mechanics and highlights the proactive use of this discipline in designing structures with cracks, challenging traditional defect-free design assumptions. The evolution of pipeline design from stress-based methodologies to fracture mechanics-based approaches is discussed, particularly in the context of hydrogen infrastructure. The limitations of traditional integrity assessment methods in the face of hydrogen pipelines are addressed, emphasizing the necessity for adherence to rigorous standards such as BS 7910 and API 579-1. The article underscores the importance of ongoing innovation, material testing, and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure the reliability and safety of next-generation pipeline infrastructure in the era of hydrogen energy.