Hydration breaks heat up World Cup debate with players, coaches split on new rule (opens original article in a new tab)

FIFA's mandatory hydration breaks in World Cup matches have sparked debate among players and coaches, with some criticizing the interruptions while others see tactical benefits, and medical experts call for longer breaks due to heat risks.

• FIFA introduced mandatory three-minute hydration breaks in World Cup matches to address heat concerns
• Players and coaches have mixed reactions, with some criticizing the breaks as disrupting game flow and others supporting them as tactical opportunities
• Medical experts recommend longer hydration breaks due to increasing heat-related risks