Fox Sports CEO supports hydration breaks for competitive balance in soccer
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 11:30 PM
Last updated Jul 22, 2026
Eric Shanks, CEO of Fox Sports, expressed support for FIFA's mandated hydration breaks during the 2026 World Cup, citing their role in enhancing competitive balance. He noted that the breaks allowed players and coaches to regroup and adjust strategies, contributing to fewer lopsided matches despite the tournament's expansion to 48 teams. The inclusion of these breaks has generated discussion about their permanence in the sport, balancing strategic advantages with tradition. As FIFA prepares to market broadcast rights for upcoming tournaments, the implications of these hydration breaks are expected to be a key topic.
- •Eric Shanks advocates for hydration breaks in soccer.
- •Breaks allowed strategic adjustments during the 2026 World Cup.
- •Fewer 'blowouts' reported with 48 teams participating.
- •Discussion on including breaks could shape future soccer norms.
- •FIFA will soon market broadcast rights for 2030 and 2034 tournaments.
- 11:30 PMYahoo Sports — Fox Sports CEO praises hydration breaks for preventing ‘blowouts’
"Much has already been written about the lucrative nature of FIFA’s mandated hydration breaks during the 2026 World Cup. Broadcasters like Fox cashed in in a big way, and the mid-half stoppages will certainly be a key point of discussion when FIFA brings its broadcast rights for the 2030 and 2034 tournaments to market in…
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