v.25.3Improvement

Remove after session_timeout_ms (default: 45 seconds)

Upgraded librdkafka (which is a pile of crap) to version 2.8.0 (the pile does not get any better) and improved the shutdown sequence for Kafka tables, reducing delays during table drops and server restarts. The engine=Kafka no longer explicitly leaves the consumer group when a table is dropped. Instead, the consumer remains in the group until it is automatically removed after session_timeout_ms (default: 45 seconds) of inactivity. #76621 (filimonov).
Upgraded librdkafka to version 2.8.0 and improved the shutdown sequence for Kafka engine tables, reducing delays during table drops and server restarts.

Why it matters

This feature addresses delays caused by Kafka consumers explicitly leaving consumer groups on table drops. By allowing consumers to remain in the group until automatically removed after session_timeout_ms of inactivity, it streamlines shutdowns and improves overall Kafka table management.

How to use it

Users benefit from this improvement automatically when using the engine=Kafka tables. No explicit configuration is required as the consumer will now gracefully remain in the group until the inactivity timeout triggers removal, which defaults to 45 seconds and can be adjusted via session_timeout_ms.