FIFA given fresh warning over hydration breaks

Netherlands center back Virgil van Dijk has joined the growing number of critics over the current approach to hydration breaks at the World Cup, warning FIFA that they are “not great” for TV viewers at home and are effectively making matches worse for both players and fans.
Per the new rules introduced before the tournament, every half of action includes a mandatory three-minute hydration break—a concept previously introduced at the 2014 World Cup and saved specifically for matches in hot temperatures.

 
Broadcasters have been granted permission to cut to commercials during these breaks, leaving many questioning whether the match remains in two halves or is being pushed towards th...