Arsene Wenger, FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, has indicated that hydration breaks introduced at the World Cup did not impact match flow or results, but their future remains under review. Speaking ahead of Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium, the former Arsenal manager stated that FIFA would analyze the impact of the three-minute breaks after the tournament before deciding on their use in future competitions.
Hydration breaks mandatory but controversial
FIFA made hydration breaks mandatory midway through each half in every World Cup match. However, the rule was not universally embraced. Critics argued that the breaks, which effectively divided the game into four quarters, disrupted momentum and allowed broadcasters to benefit from commercial breaks lasting over two minutes. Fans booed during early tournament breaks.
When asked whether the breaks affected the games, Wenger replied: 'No. Sometimes they did not like them and we have to analyze after the World Cup what is the impact. It did not look to me that it changed the results of the competition. But we are here to serve people who watch football.'
Coaches divided over necessity
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk supported the intent behind the rule in extreme heat but questioned its need in cooler conditions and at covered venues. England coach Thomas Tuchel said the breaks had a bigger impact than anticipated, breaking the flow of matches. Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa was more critical, stating the breaks added nothing to football while destroying the sport's cultural essence.
The World Cup, held across Mexico, Canada, and the United States, saw considerable differences in playing conditions. Some matches were played in extreme heat, while others, particularly in Canada and Boston, were much cooler. Wenger explained: 'In some games it was really needed and because we did not want to make any difference between games we decided to do it for every match. We will have a deep analysis after the competition.'
Medical necessity vs fan experience
Wenger acknowledged the mixed reactions: 'In some games where stadiums were covered, people were not happy with it. Medically it was needed in many games. We have not come to a conclusion yet.' The breaks were intended to protect player health in extreme heat, but their application across all matches, regardless of conditions, drew criticism. FIFA will review data and feedback before deciding whether to retain the rule for future tournaments.
