Infantino: World Cup Hydration Breaks Purely Sporting, Not Commercial

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the mandatory three-minute hydration breaks introduced in World Cup matches, asserting they are driven solely by sporting considerations and not commercial interests. These breaks, occurring in the 22nd and 67th minutes, have faced criticism from players, coaches, and fans since the tournament began.

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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.

Infantino stated that the breaks do not generate additional revenue for FIFA, as commercial agreements were finalized before their introduction. He emphasized that the primary motivation is to help players cope with high temperatures across North America and ensure fair competition. "The main reason is the heat, but we also have to understand that in a competition like the World Cup, played over 39 days, with teams potentially playing eight matches in those 39 days, having a moment to rest is extremely important," Infantino said.

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

Critics argue that the breaks disrupt match momentum and alter the game's nature, providing additional advertising opportunities for broadcasters. While some coaches and players have questioned the necessity of breaks in cooler conditions, Infantino maintained that they ensure all teams play under the same conditions, regardless of temperature variations. He also suggested that the breaks have not diminished the intensity of the matches.

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What matters even more to us is ensuring that all teams, in every match, are playing under the same conditions.