FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the use of hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup. He said the decision was made for sporting reasons and not for commercial gain.
The mandatory three minute breaks take place in the 22nd and 67th minutes of every match. FIFA introduced the rule to help players deal with the high temperatures in North America.
The breaks have sparked debate since the start of the tournament. Some coaches, players and fans believe they interrupt the flow of matches. Others have questioned whether they are needed in every stadium and weather condition.
The stoppages have also created extra advertising opportunities for broadcasters. That has led some fans to believe the rule was introduced for financial reasons.
Infantino rejected those claims.
“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 said on Wednesday.
Several coaches have criticised the rule. England manager Thomas Tuchel said the breaks change the nature of matches. Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa also argued that splitting games into shorter periods takes away an important part of football.
Others have taken a different view. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk supported the idea in extreme heat but questioned whether it should apply in cooler conditions.
Infantino said player welfare remains the main priority.
“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,” he said.
He added that FIFA wants every team to play under the same conditions. He believes using the breaks in every match creates a fairer environment across the tournament.
Infantino also dismissed suggestions that the rule has reduced the intensity of games. He said players have continued to perform at a high level despite the extra stoppages.
