FIFA is set to review the use of hydration breaks following their introduction during the 2026 World Cup, which has drawn mixed reactions from fans and commentators. The breaks, occurring approximately halfway through each half, were implemented as a mandatory measure across all matches, regardless of weather conditions or venue.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the decision, emphasizing that the breaks aim to support player welfare and maintain fairness. Infantino argued that applying hydration breaks uniformly prevents any team from gaining an advantage or facing a disadvantage based on climate differences between stadiums. “If we were to use hydration breaks only in those matches where it was too hot and not in other matches, we would give an advantage or a disadvantage to some of the coaches or some of the teams,” he said. The World Cup’s venues included stadiums with roofs and air conditioning, such as in Atlanta, where some fans publicly voiced displeasure through jeers during the stoppages.

Infantino also highlighted potential benefits beyond player health, suggesting the pauses might enhance the quality of play and entertainment. He noted that the breaks allow coaches to make tactical adjustments and give players a brief respite, enabling them to perform with renewed intensity. “Maybe the coach can reassess certain situations, correct certain mistakes. The players get a little rest and come back in full speed. Well, is that bad necessarily? Maybe it’s good,” Infantino commented. He pointed to the high tempo and continuous attacking styles witnessed throughout the 90-minute matches as possible evidence that the breaks contributed positively.

The introduction of hydration breaks coincided with an expanded tournament format, growing from 32 to 48 teams, which raised concerns about the potential dilution of match quality. However, the event proved to be highly competitive, featuring standout performances from established stars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland, as well as surprising contributions from debutant teams such as Cape Verde and Curacao.

Despite some allegations that the breaks were a covert method to increase advertising opportunities through additional stoppages, Infantino dismissed such claims, asserting that broadcasting contracts had been finalized before the breaks were introduced and that FIFA was not generating extra revenue from them.

FIFA plans to analyze the overall impact of the hydration breaks during this tournament before deciding whether to implement them in future World Cups. The organization is weighing the balance between player safety, game integrity, spectator experience, and commercial factors as it considers the role of these stoppages moving forward.