Infantino: Hydration breaks at World Cup bring no extra revenue for Fifa

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stated that the hydration breaks introduced at the World Cup are "purely a sporting matter" and bring "no additional revenue for Fifa." The three-minute pauses, implemented midway through both halves of all matches, are designed to help players cope with extreme heat during the tournament in North America.

Reaction from players and coaches has been mixed, and some supporters have booed when referees signal the breaks. Television broadcasters in several countries—though not in the UK—have aired adverts during these stoppages.

Some matches, such as England's draw with Ghana on Tuesday, have taken place in more comfortable temperatures, while others are held in air-conditioned stadiums with roofs. Infantino explained that one key reason for the breaks in every game is to ensure "equal conditions" for all competing nations.

"There is no additional revenue for Fifa, as all commercial agreements were signed well in advance. This is not a financial issue for us. For us, it is purely a sporting matter," Infantino said. Managers and coaching staff are allowed to discuss tactics with players during the breaks.

Experts told BBC Sport that an average 30-second World Cup advertising slot on Fox Sports costs between $200,000 (£152,000) and $300,000 (£227,000), rising to $750,000 (£567,000) during USA matches and the final stages. This means advertising during hydration breaks is likely to generate more than $250m (£189m) in the USA alone.