New York: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the use of hydration breaks during the FIFA World Cup, saying the policy is intended to protect players and maintain fair competition rather than generate additional revenue.
The mandatory breaks, introduced during the 22nd and 67th minutes of every match, have become one of the most debated rule changes at the tournament. While FIFA says the measure helps players cope with demanding weather conditions, critics argue that it disrupts the flow of matches and creates extra opportunities for television advertising.
According to Beyond Time News, Infantino rejected suggestions that the breaks were introduced for commercial gain and said player welfare remains FIFA’s primary concern.
FIFA Rejects Claims of Commercial Motives
The three-minute stoppages have sparked discussion among fans, coaches, and football analysts since the opening matches of the tournament.
Many viewers have questioned whether the additional breaks mainly benefit broadcasters by creating extra advertising slots during live coverage.
Infantino dismissed those concerns and said FIFA does not receive extra income from the policy.
He explained that commercial agreements for the tournament were finalized long before the competition began. As a result, the hydration breaks do not create additional revenue for football’s governing body.
According to FIFA, the decision was based on sporting and health considerations rather than financial interests.
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Why Were Hydration Breaks Introduced?
The World Cup is being played across several locations in North America, where teams have faced varying weather conditions, including high temperatures and humidity.
FIFA says the breaks provide players with an opportunity to rehydrate and recover during physically demanding matches.
The organization believes the measure can help reduce the risks associated with heat stress and fatigue, particularly during a tournament that spans more than a month.
Infantino emphasized that teams could potentially play up to eight matches during the competition, making player recovery increasingly important as the tournament progresses.
Coaches Divided Over the Rule
The hydration break policy has received mixed reactions from managers and players.
Some coaches believe the stoppages interrupt the natural rhythm of football.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has argued that the breaks alter the identity of the game by disrupting momentum and changing match dynamics.
Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa has also expressed concerns, saying that dividing matches into shorter segments affects one of football’s traditional characteristics—continuous play.
Others support the principle behind the rule but believe it should be applied more selectively.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk have acknowledged the importance of protecting players in extreme heat. However, they have questioned whether hydration breaks are necessary during cooler weather or in stadiums with covered roofs.
FIFA Emphasizes Competitive Fairness
Beyond player welfare, FIFA says consistency is another reason for implementing the breaks in every match.
Infantino argued that applying the rule universally ensures all teams compete under the same conditions.
He suggested that allowing breaks only during hotter matches could create uneven circumstances, giving some coaches additional opportunities to influence games through tactical adjustments while others would not have the same chance.
By standardizing the approach, FIFA believes every team receives equal treatment throughout the tournament.
Impact on Modern Football
The debate highlights a broader discussion about balancing tradition with evolving demands in elite sport.
Football authorities increasingly face pressure to protect athletes from extreme weather conditions while preserving the fast-paced nature of the game.
Climate concerns, packed schedules, and growing physical demands on players have pushed governing bodies to explore new measures aimed at safeguarding health and performance.
Hydration breaks are one example of how football is adapting to these challenges.
What Happens Next?
FIFA has given no indication that it plans to remove the hydration breaks during the current tournament.
Infantino maintains that the measure has not reduced the quality or intensity of matches. Instead, he believes players have been able to sustain high performance levels throughout games.
As the tournament advances, the debate is likely to continue. Supporters view the policy as a sensible health measure, while critics remain concerned about its impact on the flow and tradition of football.
Conclusion
Gianni Infantino has firmly defended FIFA’s hydration break policy, insisting that player welfare and competitive fairness—not commercial interests—are driving the decision.
While the rule continues to divide opinion among coaches, players, and fans, FIFA believes the breaks are necessary to help athletes perform safely during a demanding World Cup schedule. The discussion reflects the ongoing challenge of adapting football to modern conditions while preserving the essence of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did FIFA introduce hydration breaks at the World Cup?
FIFA introduced the breaks to help players manage heat, stay hydrated, and recover during matches played in challenging weather conditions.
How long are the hydration breaks?
Each hydration break lasts approximately three minutes and takes place during the 22nd and 67th minutes of a match.
Does FIFA earn extra money from hydration breaks?
According to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the breaks do not generate additional revenue because commercial agreements were signed before the tournament.
Why are some coaches criticizing the rule?
Critics argue that the breaks interrupt match momentum, alter tactics, and change the traditional flow of football.
Will hydration breaks continue throughout the tournament?
FIFA has indicated that the policy will remain in place for the current World Cup.
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