FIFA to allow 3-minute hydration breaks in each half of World Cup games
It has been decided that matches will be stopped at 22 minutes into each half for players to take drinks breaks irrespective of the temperature or venue and regardless of whether the stadium has a roof and air conditioning.
New Delhi: FIFA has agreed to provide hydration breaks of three minutes in each half of every game at World Cup next year.
Earlier it had thought of providing hydration breaks in matches played under hot weather conditions.
It has been decided that matches will be stopped at 22 minutes into each half for players to take drinks breaks irrespective of the temperature or venue and regardless of whether the stadium has a roof and air conditioning.
America, Canada and Mexico will co-host the tournament with 48 teams participated in the expanded 23rd edition of the tournament.
The change is expected to find favour with broadcasters as it makes the game schedule more predictable.
It was first announced when FIFA's chief tournament officer for the tournament, Manolo Zubiria, attended a meeting with broadcasters.
Referees may have flexibility to call for drinks if there's a stoppage shortly before the mandated mark for an injury.
"This will be addressed on the spot with the referee,” Zubiria said, as quoted by AP.
'Simplified'
FIFA had earlier allowed breaks after 30 minutes when temperatures reached 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 Fahrenheit) or beyond and this move is a "streamlined and simplified version” of the earlier practice.
The change was made keeping in mind the heat and humidity took a toll on players during several games at Club World Cup hosted by USA last year.
FIFA had lowered the temperature threshold for cooling breaks during the tournament as playing under excessive heat has been a major issue at major tournaments.
A total of 104-matches will be played in the World Cup that begins on June 11 with Mexico hosting South Africa. Reigning champions Argentina begin their title defence against Algeria on June 16.