Netherlands centre-back Virgil van Dijk has joined the growing criticism of FIFA’s approach to hydration breaks at the World Cup, calling them ‘not great’ for viewers at home and disrupting the flow of the game for players and fans alike.
The new rules, which include a mandatory three-minute hydration break in each half, were introduced ahead of the tournament and have been met with criticism from broadcasters and fans alike.
Broadcasters have been given permission to cut commercials during hydration breaks, but many are choosing to maintain a live stream of the match, raising questions about the future of the traditional two-half format.
Van Dijk was on the scoresheet as the Netherlands drew 2–2 in the opener with Japan in Dallas, and a hydration break was enforced in both halves despite the climate-controlled stadium.
After the game, Van Dijk laughed as he expressed his thoughts on the hydration breaks: ‘I think they’re really interesting. I’ve watched almost every game up until today… it’s not great for neutrals on TV.’
Van Dijk suggested that hydration breaks should only be enforced in extreme heat, rather than as a standard rule, and praised broadcasters who maintained a live stream of the match during breaks.
The Dutch players were left frustrated by the delay and the disruption to the game.
FIFA’s approach to this summer’s World Cup has been widely criticized, with high ticket prices and controversies on the pitch dominating the headlines.
The controversies have centered around matters on the pitch, including a surprising call in Switzerland’s 1-1 draw with Qatar and the introduction of hydration breaks.
FIFA has faced criticism for its handling of VAR decisions and its attempts to explain statistics, leaving fans and players frustrated and confused.
The hydration breaks are just another source of tension between FIFA and fans, with some broadcasters choosing to cut commercials during breaks and others maintaining a live stream of the match.
Broadcasters are not required to air commercials during hydration breaks, and some have specifically committed to maintaining a live stream of the match throughout.
Even for those inside the stadiums, spectators were left frustrated on several occasions as play was delayed to finish these three-minute breaks, even though both sets of players were lined up and ready to go.
FIFA is trying to innovate and find ways to engage new audiences, but its approach to the World Cup has been widely criticized.
Controversy is already piling up for FIFA as the World Cup continues.
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