World Cup hydration breaks are for sports, not profit, says FIFA chief

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the controversial "hydration break" rule introduced in the current World Cup, asserting it is solely a sporting consideration and not a revenue-generating ploy. The new rule mandates approximately three-minute breaks every 22 minutes in both halves, a measure that has drawn criticism from coaches and fans alike.

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The main reason, of course, is the high temperature, but in a tournament that lasts 39 days and where teams might have to play up to 8 matches, it is extremely important to give players a break.

Coaches have voiced dissatisfaction, arguing that the breaks fragment the game's rhythm, making it feel like a four-quarter match. Spectators have also expressed their displeasure, with audible boos heard during the breaks. Concerns have been raised that the breaks, even in air-conditioned stadiums, are being used by broadcasters to air additional advertisements, fueling suspicions of commercial exploitation.

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To ensure that all teams compete under the same conditions in any match. If, due to hot weather, the coaches of some matches can use the hydration break for tactical adjustments, thereby affecting the outcome of the match; and in matches with lower temperatures, other coaches do not have the same opportunity, that would be a very unacceptable situation.

Infantino countered these criticisms by emphasizing player welfare. He stated that in a tournament spanning 39 days where teams might play up to eight matches, providing players with rest is crucial, especially given the high temperatures. He also stressed the importance of maintaining a level playing field, ensuring that all teams compete under similar conditions and that no coach gains an unfair tactical advantage due to the breaks.

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FIFA has not received any additional benefits from this.

"FIFA has not received any additional benefits from this," Infantino declared. He further revealed that all commercial contracts were finalized long before the rule change, meaning FIFA does not generate extra income from these breaks. "So, for us, this is not a money issue, but purely a competitive and sporting consideration," he concluded.

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All commercial contracts were signed a long time ago, so FIFA will not increase any revenue due to these hydration times. So, for us, this is not a money issue, but purely a competitive and sporting consideration.