FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the introduction of hydration breaks at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, rejecting claims that the decision was influenced by commercial interests. He said the pauses were implemented purely for player safety and fairness.
The breaks last three minutes and are scheduled in the 22nd and 67th minutes of each match. They have become one of the most debated features of the tournament, drawing criticism from players, coaches, and fans.
Infantino said there is no additional financial benefit for FIFA, arguing that commercial agreements were finalized in advance. He added that the breaks are necessary due to high temperatures and the demanding schedule of the World Cup, where teams may play multiple matches within a short period.
He also said the stoppages help ensure uniform conditions across all matches, regardless of weather differences between venues, preventing teams from gaining an advantage based on temperature variations.
According to him, the pauses have not reduced the quality of matches and players continue to perform at a high level despite the interruptions.
The hydration breaks were introduced to address extreme heat conditions in North America, but they have sparked wider debate about their impact on the flow of the game.
Critics argue that the breaks allow broadcasters to insert additional advertising and give coaching staff mid-match tactical opportunities, which they say alters the natural rhythm of football.
Some coaches, including England’s Thomas Tuchel and Uruguay’s Marcelo Bielsa, have criticized the measure for disrupting the continuity and traditional structure of the game.
Others, such as Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk, have supported hydration breaks in principle but questioned their use in all conditions.
The discussion continues as the tournament progresses, with FIFA maintaining that the policy is focused on player welfare and competitive fairness.
