Gianni Infantino defends hydration breaks amid World Cup revenue criticisms
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 5:30 PM
Last updated Jun 26, 2026
During a media appearance, Gianni Infantino addressed the controversy surrounding hydration breaks implemented for the 2026 World Cup matches in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Fans have reportedly booed these three-minute pauses, viewing them as commercial breaks rather than health measures. Infantino stated there are no additional revenues for FIFA from these breaks, emphasizing the need for equal conditions in matches played under varying heat levels. Critics, including Professor Kieran Maguire, described his statement as insulting, pointing to commercial tie-ins like Coca-Cola's Powerade sponsorship. The financial implications are significant, with some research indicating potential advertising revenue gains for broadcasters between $250 million and $600 million.
- •Hydration breaks are under criticism from fans at the World Cup.
- •Infantino claims FIFA will not benefit financially from these pauses.
- •Critics argue breaks serve mainly to increase advertising revenue.
- •Coca-Cola sponsors the hydration breaks with a deal worth $100 million annually.
- •Professor Kieran Maguire labels Infantino's comments as disingenuous.
- 5:30 PMYahoo Sports — What Gianni Infantino is telling the world about $600m World Cup controversy is an ‘insult’
"The ‘hydration breaks’ FIFA introduced for the 2026 World Cup have been more controversial than any refereeing decision or selection dilemma so far this summer. The three-minute pauses punctuate every match across the United States, Canada and Mexico and have been roundly booed by fans of nearly every team taking part.
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