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FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested that hydration breaks are likely to remain a fixture in upcoming World Cup tournaments, as reported by the Sun.

Despite facing criticism from fans, players, and coaches, Infantino has stood by the decision, insisting that these scheduled pauses have enhanced the overall quality of matches.

Originally introduced as short rest periods for players, many supporters now argue that these breaks disrupt the natural rhythm of games and serve as extra opportunities for television advertisements.

Broadcasters in the United States have made use of these breaks to run commercials, while networks in the United Kingdom have opted not to air ads during the same periods.

Commentators have frequently questioned whether such interruptions are truly necessary, noting that they can break the momentum of play and affect the flow of matches.

Addressing the debate, Infantino explained that the pauses allow coaches to make tactical adjustments, rectify errors, and better prepare their teams for the remainder of the match.

“Maybe the coach can reassess certain situations, correct certain mistakes,” Infantino said. “The players get a little rest and come back in full speed. Well, is that bad necessarily? Maybe it’s good.”

He further added, “And we see as well the intensity of the games. We’ve never seen 90 minutes in a tournament like this played in such an intensity.”

“Until the last second of the match, players attack and so on, and maybe, maybe not, but maybe it’s also a bit thanks to this little break that the players have and after they can go back on the field and show what they can do.”

However, not everyone agrees with this view.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has voiced his preference for uninterrupted matches, while some sports scientists argue that there is no medical justification for mandatory hydration breaks in certain stadiums.

England supporters were also frustrated by the use of hydration breaks during the goalless draw against Ghana.

Following a lengthy first-half injury stoppage that had already allowed players to recover, referee Said Martinez still enforced the scheduled hydration break shortly afterwards.

There have been additional concerns about the necessity of hydration breaks in air-conditioned venues with closed roofs, where extreme heat is not a factor.

Nonetheless, Infantino maintained that the rules should be applied uniformly across all matches to ensure fairness.