Fifpro, the global players' union, is advocating for extending half-time breaks to 20 minutes in extreme heat, highlighting concerns raised during the recent Club World Cup. This event experienced temperatures exceeding 40°C, challenging player safety. Dr. Vincent Gouttebarge calls for longer breaks to help maintain core temperatures, as current cooling protocols may be insufficient. While FIFA has responded to concerns during the tournament, Fifpro emphasizes the need for preemptive measures for ensuring player health in extreme conditions. Ongoing research and collaboration with national unions aim to find optimal strategies for managing heat-related risks in football.
“Fifpro is calling for extra measures to protect footballers after what it describes as the wake-up call of the Club World Cup, which has been plagued by extreme temperatures.”
“Dr. Vincent Gouttebarge stresses that an extended half-time break would provide a necessary additional tool in helping to keep players' core temperatures within their normal range.”}],
“We are lacking the evidence in terms of what is the optimal duration for a cooling break. A half-time of 15 minutes might not be enough to decrease the core temperature.”
“Fifpro's general secretary, Alex Phillips, noted that while FIFA has been responsive to input during the tournament, engaging with the issue earlier would have been preferable.”
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