FIFA President Says Hydration Breaks Not for Revenue

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 every match, are designed to help players cope with extreme heat during the tournament in North America.

Mixed Reactions to Hydration Breaks

The breaks have elicited a mixed response from players and coaches, with some sections of supporters booing when referees signal for them. Television broadcasters in several countries have aired advertisements during the pauses, though this is not the case in the UK. Some matches, such as England's draw with Ghana on Tuesday, have been played in more comfortable temperatures or inside air-conditioned stadiums with a roof.

Ensuring Equal Conditions

Infantino explained that one of the main reasons for implementing breaks in every match is to create "equal conditions" for all competing nations. He emphasized that all commercial agreements were signed well in advance, so the breaks do not generate additional revenue for FIFA. "This is not a financial issue for us. For us, it is purely a sporting matter," he said.

During the breaks, managers and coaching staff are allowed to discuss tactics with their players. Infantino noted that the primary reason for the breaks is the heat, but also highlighted the importance of rest in a tournament where teams may play up to eight matches over 39 days. "What matters even more to us is ensuring that all teams, in every match, are playing under the same conditions," he added.

Advertising Revenue Estimates

Experts have 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 suggests that advertising during hydration breaks could generate more than $250 million (£189 million) in the USA alone.