FIFA admits hydration breaks may not continue after World Cup criticism

FIFA has not yet committed to retaining the hydration break beyond the current World Cup tournament, according to Arsene Wenger, the organisation's chief of football development. Speaking at a news conference ahead of the final, Wenger indicated that the governing body intends to evaluate the measure's effectiveness once the competition concludes.

The three-minute mandatory interval introduced midway through each half has generated mixed reactions among spectators. Wenger acknowledged that some fans, particularly those attending matches in climate-controlled stadiums or during cooler weather, expressed dissatisfaction with the breaks. He noted that while the breaks were medically justified in certain matches, they appeared unnecessary in others, such as games played in air-conditioned venues or at lower temperatures.

Wenger stated that available data does not demonstrate that the hydration breaks have improved player performance or altered competition outcomes. He emphasised FIFA's commitment to serving the interests of football fans and indicated that conclusions regarding the break's future would be reached following the tournament's completion.

In contrast, Wenger praised other regulatory changes implemented at the World Cup. A new rule requiring players receiving medical treatment to leave the pitch for one minute has been well-received, with FIFA reporting a reduction in medical interventions from 2.3 per match in 2022 to 1.6 during the current tournament. Wenger noted that this change has resonated positively with observers due to its measurable impact on game flow and spectator experience.