2026 World Cup: Gianni Infantino defends hydration breaks, but the controversy grows
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
Gianni Infantino assured that the main aim of implementing hydration breaks during the World Cup was the well-being of the players and sporting fairness. However, many voices question the sincerity of these arguments, pointing to a potential commercial interest underlying this new measure.
Since the start of the World Cup, each match is now marked by hydration breaks, officially intended to protect the health of players in the heat. FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke out this week to justify this hotly contested system. “The main reason is the heat,” he says, specifying that offering a moment of rest is essential in a competition played over 39 days, where some teams can play up to eight matches. Infantino also insists on the need to offer fair conditions to all participants, so that each coach has the same opportunities to readjust their strategy.
However, these explanations do not appease the critics. Many suspect these interruptions to primarily serve commercial interests, especially since many broadcasters take advantage of them to broadcast advertisements during these breaks. Questioned on this subject, Infantino was categorical: “We do not make any additional income”, ensuring that no financial benefit is derived from this novelty. He concedes, however, that the feasibility of these breaks for the 2030 World Cup and beyond will be studied, leaving the door open to a generalization which could influence TV rights.
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This defense based on the well-being of the players leaves one skeptical, especially since FIFA has already been criticized for its lack of responsiveness to the overload of the calendar and extreme weather conditions, such as during the recent expansion of the Club World Cup in the United States. Some observers denounce facade communication, accusing the body of brandishing the argument of sporting fairness only when it serves its interests.
Finally, the question of real sporting equity remains raised, particularly in the face of the challenge represented by the altitude of Mexican stadiums or the differences in climatic conditions depending on the location. If FIFA really seeks to guarantee fairness, why not standardize other major parameters as well? The debate remains open as the 2026 World Cup approaches.