FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the governing body will assess whether to retain hydration breaks in future World Cups "based on this experience," following widespread criticism from fans and players during the current tournament. The stoppages, which occur midway through each half, have effectively divided matches into quarters and are implemented irrespective of weather conditions, including in stadiums with closed roofs and air conditioning.
England Match Sparks Frustration
England's group-stage match against Ghana saw visible frustration as players were forced to take a hydration break shortly after a lengthy injury stoppage. Loud boos echoed through the Boston Stadium as the teams headed to the sidelines. Former England striker Alan Shearer labelled the break "nonsense," questioning why the referee did not combine it with the earlier stoppage. "There's been nearly two minutes [of stoppages] already. It seems crazy for the referee not to just say let's have the break now. Goodness me," Shearer said.
Infantino Rejects Advertising Motive
Infantino dismissed claims that the breaks are designed to boost advertising revenue. "Broadcasters maybe generate more, but for us, we make zero additional revenues," he said. Instead, he highlighted potential benefits for coaches and players. "Maybe the coach can reassess certain situations, correct certain mistakes. The players get a little rest and come back in full speed. Well, is that bad necessarily? Maybe it's good," Infantino added.
Consistency Over Conditions
The FIFA chief explained the decision to apply hydration breaks universally rather than on a case-by-case basis. "If we were to use hydration breaks only in those matches where it was too hot and not in the other matches, we would give an advantage or a disadvantage to some of the coaches or some of the teams," he said. "Why would the coach have the opportunity to influence the game in one match just because it’s hot and in another match where it’s a bit less hot, he wouldn’t have this opportunity?"
Impact on Game Intensity
Infantino also suggested the breaks may contribute to the high intensity of matches. "We’ve never seen 90 minutes in a tournament like this played in such an intensity. Until the last second of the match, players attack and so on. And maybe, maybe not, but maybe it’s also a bit thanks to this little break that the players have and after they can go back on the field and show what they can do," he said.
