FIFA Says It Has No Proof World Cup Water Breaks Help Players

FIFA's Arsene Wenger said July 18 the organization has no data showing mandatory three-minute water breaks improve players' performance or the flow of games. The breaks, enforced at the 2026 World Cup no matter the weather, drew fan criticism — including during a cool 16°C match in Seattle. Wenger said FIFA has not decided whether to keep the breaks after this tournament.