Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk has criticized FIFA’s implementation of mandatory hydration breaks during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Dutch began their campaign by twice throwing the lead away against a strong Japan side, with Van Dijk enjoying a mixed game in Dallas as he scored but was also criticised for some aspects of his performance.
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The stadium in Dallas was said to be around 20 degrees Celsius during the match, with Van Dijk suggesting hydration breaks should only be used when the temperature is above a certain threshold
‘Hydration breaks are a bit interesting because I was obviously watching almost all the games, up until today and every time going to a commercial is a bit… not really what I like,’ said Van Dijk when asked about the divisive rule change.
‘I think also think for the neutral watchers on TV it’s also not great. So if it’s really hot it would be good to put them in, but you have to look at it in every game separately in my opinion.’
‘I think I’ve said enough already on that,’ he added with a rueful smile.
FIFA’s approach to this summer’s World Cup has not gone down well with a large number of fans, with many concerns stemming around the finances involved.
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High ticket prices dominated headlines for months before the tournament and appeared to lead to a number of empty seats across the opening games.
Official attendance numbers have not always aligned with the eye test and FIFA’s attempts to explain the statistics have only added to the confusion.
