FIFA addresses hydration break controversy with Gianni Infantino statement

FIFA introduced hydration breaks in the 22nd and the 67th minute in every match of a World Cup for the first time in the history of the competition; however, there have been several complaints around the introduction of this from fans, pundits, and players.

Netherlands and Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk made his view clear on the introduction of the breaks between both halves, essentially splitting the match into quarters.

Meanwhile, England fans at the stadiums have been seen booing throughout the hydration breaks as they have taken the cynical view that they are being used for broadcasters to show advertisements.

Hydration breaks have not been invented for the 2026 World Cup, as they had been introduced previously to allow players to refuel when playing in extreme heat; however, cynical fans have pointed to the fact that several matches in this tournament have had perfect weather conditions for football, yet these stoppages have still occurred.

Now, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has released a statement to address the controversy around the hydration breaks being introduced for advertisement space.

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He said: “The main reason is the heat, but we also have to understand that in a competition like the (FIFA) World Cup, played over 39 days, with teams potentially playing eight matches in those 39 days, having a moment to rest is extremely important.

“What matters even more to us is ensuring that all teams, in every match, are playing under the same conditions. And it’s very difficult to accept that a coach might have the opportunity to influence a match by making adjustments simply because it’s hotter, while in another match, where the temperature is slightly lower, the same coach doesn’t have the same opportunity. We want to ensure equal conditions for everyone, and that’s why these breaks are implemented in every match.

“There is no additional revenue for FIFA, as all commercial agreements were signed well in advance. So, this is not a financial issue for us. For us, it is purely a sporting matter.”

Hydration breaks are set to continue for the remainder of this World Cup; however, it appears fans will hope that, come July 19, this is the last time they see these stoppages unless they are required due to the playing conditions and for player well-being.