FIFA to review hydration breaks after World Cup criticism

FIFA will review the effect of the hydration breaks introduced during the 2022 World Cup, former club legend and current FIFA official Arsène Wenger said on Thursday, a day before the tournament’s final. The governing body plans to assess how the 20‑minute breaks, implemented to reduce heat‑related risks, influenced match tempo, player performance and overall safety.

Wenger highlighted that the data collected from the 32 matches will be analysed to determine whether the breaks achieved their intended health outcomes while maintaining competitive integrity. He noted that the findings will inform future regulations on match interruptions, especially in hot climates, and could shape guidelines for subsequent international tournaments.

The analysis is expected to be published shortly after the final, providing FIFA with evidence to refine its approach to player welfare and match scheduling in forthcoming competitions.