Virgil van Dijk has expressed criticism of the use of commercial breaks during hydration stops at the FIFA World Cup. The three-minute pauses, implemented midway through each half to allow players to rehydrate under extreme heat conditions, have drawn mixed reactions.

The Netherlands captain, who scored in his team’s 2-2 draw against Japan on Sunday, voiced his disapproval of the televised advertising during these intervals. Van Dijk acknowledged the necessity of hydration breaks in particularly hot matches but questioned the blanket application of the practice as well as the incorporation of commercial broadcasts during the stoppages.

“I have been watching the games. Every time it goes into a commercial and I don’t like it,” Van Dijk said. He added that while the breaks serve a purpose in high temperatures, it’s important to assess each game individually.

Hydration breaks were introduced by FIFA to safeguard players’ health in extreme weather, allowing them to take on fluids in conditions that can otherwise pose serious risks. However, the inclusion of commercial advertisements within these breaks has been met with some frustration from players and viewers alike, who argue it interrupts the flow of the game.

FIFA has defended the practice as a necessary compromise to ensure player safety while maintaining broadcasting and commercial commitments. Nonetheless, Van Dijk’s remarks highlight ongoing debates about balancing athlete welfare, fan experience, and commercial interests during major sporting events.