World Cup 2026

FIFA World Cup 2026: Arsene Wenger on hydration breaks, says,

Arsene Wenger has spoken of his disapproval of hydration breaks implemented at the 2026 World Cup and said FIFA will review the issue.

20 July 2026✍️ Mónica Álvarez

𝕏 f 📱

FIFA World Cup 2026: Arsene Wenger on hydration breaks, says

According to BBC.

Background

Arsene Wenger, FIFA's head of global football development, has expressed disappointment at the popularity of hydration breaks. Under his leadership, FIFA has prioritized the well-being of players, but will also need to take into account the reactions of fans.

Why it matters

Arsene Wenger's views on hydration breaks could affect the experience of players and fans during the FIFA World Cup 2026. These breaks were implemented for the well-being of the players, but critics saw it as an advertising opportunity. If Wenger and FIFA review these breaks, it could lead to improvements in future tournaments.

Key Points

FIFA World Cup 2026: Arsene Wenger on hydration breaks, says.
Arsene Wenger has spoken of his disapproval of hydration breaks implemented at the 2026 World Cup and said FIFA will review the issue..
World Cup 2026: Hydration breaks not popular and Fifa will review, says Arsene Wenger - BBC Sport.

Arsene Wenger has expressed disappointment over the popularity of hydration breaks at the FIFA World Cup 2026. He said FIFA would conduct a post-tournament review on the matter. Wenger, who is FIFA's head of global football development, explained that "sometimes people didn't like these hydration breaks."

FIFA implemented mandatory three-minute hydration breaks in all matches, regardless of weather. These breaks were scheduled for all matches played in the United States, Mexico and Canada. FIFA said that these breaks are part of its commitment to the well-being of players. Despite this, critics saw these breaks as an opportunity for advertisements by broadcasters.Wenger said, "We will analyze the impact of these hydration breaks after the World Cup. It did not seem to me that it changed the result, but we are at the service of those watching football." He also said that in some games, especially when stadiums were covered, fans were dissatisfied with these breaks. As the tournament progressed, fans expressed their frustration with these breaks.

According to experts, an average 30-second ad slot on Fox Sports in the US costs $200,000 to $300,000, and this rises to $750,000 for US matches. These breaks actually functioned as strategic scheduling, allowing coaches to make tactical changes with the players.The European Football Union (UEFA) has refused to implement these breaks. England coach Thomas Tuchel previously stated that he is not a fan of these breaks because they "disrupt the identity of a football match." Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his support for these breaks last month, saying "I am always worried about the health of my players. This is the right step – a break, to refresh and to play again."

Additionally, Wenger said that the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams has been a successful decision. "It was questioned before it started, but we found it was morally necessary to give more teams the opportunity. I believe it was the right decision and it has been a great success," he said.

What will happen next

After the FIFA World Cup 2026, Wenger has indicated that he will analyze the impact of hydration breaks. This review may determine whether these breaks will be continued in future tournaments. If unsatisfactory reactions from fans and players continue, FIFA may have to reconsider these breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Arsene Wenger say on hydration breaks?

Arsene Wenger expressed disappointment at the popularity of hydration breaks and said FIFA would conduct a post-tournament review on the topic.

Why did FIFA implement hydration breaks?

FIFA implemented hydration breaks as part of its commitment to player well-being.

Why are hydration breaks being criticized?

Critics have seen these breaks as an opportunity for advertisements by broadcasters and some fans have expressed dissatisfaction with them.

Will the impact of hydration breaks be analyzed?

Yes, Arsene Wenger said that the impact of these hydration breaks will be analyzed after the World Cup.

Which coaches have given their opinion on hydration breaks?

England coach Thomas Tuchel has expressed his opinion against these breaks, while Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has supported them.

Anthony Gordon's inspirational message after winning the bronze medal at the World Cup

← All News