Gianni Infantino defends hydration breaks as player welfare measure

FIFA has made hydration breaks mandatory during tournaments played in high‑temperature conditions to prevent dehydration. President Infantino emphasized that the rule is purely a health safeguard and will not disrupt the flow of the game.

Critics argue the pauses serve commercial interests and interrupt momentum, but Infantino rejected those claims. He concluded that player welfare and the integrity of the sport are the top priorities behind the decision.