Mandatory hydration breaks have become one of the biggest arguments of this World Cup.
FIFA introduced them for player welfare, but many fans believe they are harming football’s spirit and changing how matches are played.
The pauses around the 22nd minute of each half have already become tactical moments. Coaches can reset teams, momentum can shift and supporters have questioned whether every match really needs them.
Paul Gascoigne, the former England and Tottenham midfielder, has now weighed in. He believes hydration matters, but stopping the whole game could create another physical problem.
Paul Gascoigne says hydration breaks could increase injury risk
Gascoigne told YouTube channel Clutch 9 Football, while watching England 4-2 win over Croatia: “I know it’s hard for them, but I don’t like the 22 minute break for a drink.
“What happens is if you’re playing, even though it’s hot, if you’re playing and working hard, then you stop every 20 minutes for a five minute break, some of your muscles can tighten, and you might get a calf strain and stuff like that.”
He then suggested a simpler alternative: “What I would do is put around the pitch little bottles of drink, then if a player is nearby quickly have a quick sip.”
That would protect hydration without turning every match into a scheduled stoppage.
Fans booed hydration break during Czechia and South Africa
Gascoigne is not the only one pushing back.
During Czechia’s 1-1 draw with South Africa, fans booed when the first-half hydration break began.
The Athletic reported that the stadium DJ tried to drown the reaction out with music, but the boos only became louder. The fans’ stance on that matter appears to be crystal clear.
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