FIFA clears up the hydration break confusion with a statement from Gianni Infantino
FIFA introduced hydration breaks during the 22nd and 67th minutes in every World Cup match for the first time ever. But not everyone is happy about it—fans, experts, and players have shared their complaints.
Virgil van Dijk, the star player from the Netherlands and Liverpool, spoke out clearly about these breaks, which basically split the game into four parts instead of two halves. Meanwhile, England fans at the stadium have been booing during these breaks, thinking they’re just there so broadcasters can show ads.
Hydration breaks aren’t new—they were brought in for the 2026 World Cup to help players stay refreshed in very hot weather. Still, some fans have pointed out that many matches have had great weather this time, but the breaks are still happening.
Now, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has responded to the concerns about breaks being used for ads. He explained, “The main reason is the heat, but in a tough tournament like the World Cup, where teams might play up to eight games in 39 days, having a short rest is very important. We also want to make sure every team plays under the same conditions. It wouldn’t be fair if some coaches could make changes during hot games but not during cooler ones. So, the breaks happen in every match to keep things equal. Also, FIFA doesn’t earn extra money from these breaks because all the ad deals were set up before. This is about the sport, not money.”
The hydration breaks will continue for the rest of this World Cup, but many fans are hoping that after July 19, these pauses will only happen when really needed for player health and safety.