Football figures criticize FIFA's mandatory water breaks at World Cup
FIFA has introduced two mandatory water breaks in every 2026 World Cup match regardless of weather, drawing sharp criticism from football personalities and fans.
FIFA's decision to implement two water breaks in every match of the 2026 World Cup has sparked widespread criticism. The international football federation announced the measure in December 2025, citing player health concerns in hot conditions. However, the breaks are applied to all games, including those played in indoor stadiums or cooler climates such as Canada or Seattle, USA.
Players receive a three-minute pause in each half after 22 minutes of play. Coaches use this time to deliver tactical instructions, while broadcasters air commercials. For instance, Fox, which paid $485 million for US rights, overran its ad slot during the opening game and returned to live coverage ten seconds late, according to sources.
Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, now a tournament pundit, was among the harshest critics. "Football has become a hostage of officials sitting in air-conditioned offices. The World Cup game should flow without interruptions. Instead, there is a break in the middle of each half to make room for advertisements," he said. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk argued that breaks should only be used when it is genuinely hot.
Fans on social media expressed frustration, calling the three-minute breaks excessive and a sign of commercial interests overriding the sport. The World Cup runs until July 19 and is the first to be co-hosted by three countries—USA, Canada, and Mexico—with an expanded format of 48 teams.
