The UEFA and French Football Federation (LFP) have officially decided not to reintroduce the controversial “cool-down” breaks that were introduced during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, according to multiple reports from European football’s governing bodies and major broadcasters. The format, which added extended periods for commercials and player rest during matches, will not be used at Euro 2024 in Germany or the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This decision follows widespread criticism from players, coaches, and fans who argued the breaks disrupted the flow of play and created unnecessary delays. The LFP, in particular, had been vocal about its preference for maintaining traditional match structures, while UEFA has prioritized player welfare and fan experience in its tournament formats. According to UEFA’s official tournament regulations, the organization has confirmed that no additional breaks beyond those mandated by FIFA’s Laws of the Game will be implemented for Euro 2024.
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar introduced three mandatory “cool-down” periods—each lasting up to 30 seconds—per half, alongside the existing half-time break. These pauses were criticized for slowing down the pace of play and were seen by many as a commercial maneuver rather than a player welfare measure. While FIFA has maintained that the breaks were implemented to allow players to recover in the extreme heat of Qatar, the format was not universally adopted by other competitions.
Why Were the ‘Cool-Down’ Breaks Introduced in the First Place?
The “cool-down” breaks were first introduced during the 2022 World Cup as a response to the extreme heat conditions in Qatar, where temperatures frequently exceeded 40°C (104°F). FIFA and the Qatar Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy argued that the breaks allowed players to hydrate and cool down without disrupting the match schedule. However, the format was quickly met with resistance from players and coaches, who viewed it as an unnecessary interruption.
According to a Guardian analysis published during the tournament, the breaks added an average of 1.5 minutes per half to match durations, a figure later confirmed by BBC Sport in a post-tournament review. The International Players’ Association (FIFPro) also publicly criticized the format, stating that it “disrupted the natural rhythm of the game” and offered no tangible benefit to player performance.
“The cool-down breaks were a commercial decision disguised as player welfare. There was no scientific evidence to support their necessity, and they only served to slow down the game.”
How Did UEFA and the LFP Respond to the Criticism?
UEFA’s decision to abandon the format for Euro 2024 reflects a broader shift in European football toward preserving the traditional pace and flow of matches. The organization has emphasized that player welfare will continue to be addressed through other means, such as hydration protocols, medical monitoring, and controlled training environments. According to UEFA’s official statement, the governing body will focus on “ensuring matches remain competitive and entertaining for fans” while maintaining high standards of player care.
The LFP, which had been a vocal opponent of the breaks, welcomed the decision. In a statement to Ligue 1’s official website, the federation’s president, Pierre-Franck Chevet, stated that “the integrity of the match must come first. Fans deserve to see a fluid, uninterrupted game, and we are pleased that UEFA has aligned with this principle.”
What Happens Next for the 2026 World Cup?
While UEFA and the LFP have confirmed that the “cool-down” breaks will not be part of Euro 2024, the situation for the 2026 World Cup remains under discussion. FIFA has not yet issued an official statement on whether the format will be reintroduced, though sources close to the tournament suggest it is unlikely. The 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded 48-team format, which may further complicate scheduling and leave less room for additional breaks.
According to FIFA’s official expansion plans, the 2026 tournament will include a revised match schedule designed to reduce travel fatigue and maintain competitive intensity. The organization has indicated that any adjustments to match formats will be made with input from players’ unions and medical experts.
One key factor in FIFA’s decision-making will be the feedback from the 2024 European Championship, where match pacing and player welfare will be closely monitored. If Euro 2024 proceeds without additional breaks and players report no adverse effects, it could set a precedent for the 2026 World Cup.
Who Benefits from the Decision?
The abandonment of “cool-down” breaks is widely seen as a victory for several key stakeholders:
- Players: Many athletes, including stars like Kylian Mbappé and Kevin De Bruyne, have publicly criticized the breaks for disrupting their focus. The return to a more traditional match structure is expected to improve player satisfaction and performance.
- Coaches: Tactical planning will become simpler without the need to adjust strategies around mandatory pauses. Managers like Hansi Flick (Germany) and Didier Deschamps (France) have previously expressed frustration with the format.
- Fans: Spectators will experience matches in their entirety without commercial interruptions, enhancing the live event atmosphere. Broadcasters, who had mixed reactions to the breaks, may also see improved viewer engagement.
- UEFA and LFP: Both organizations have reinforced their commitment to preserving the “beauty of the game,” a principle that has been central to European football’s identity for decades.
What Are the Alternatives for Player Welfare?
With the “cool-down” breaks off the table, UEFA and FIFA are exploring other measures to ensure player welfare, particularly in high-temperature environments. Some of the alternatives under consideration include:
- Extended half-time breaks: Allowing more time for hydration and medical checks without disrupting the match flow.
- Pre-match cooling protocols: Implementing stricter cooling procedures in the hours leading up to kickoff, as seen in the UEFA Euro 2024 host city guidelines.
- Medical monitoring: Enhanced on-field medical support, including real-time heat stress tracking for players.
- Scheduled rest days: Adjusting tournament schedules to include additional rest periods between matches, particularly in multi-game weeks.
UEFA has also signaled that it will work with medical experts to develop a standardized player welfare protocol that can be adapted to different climates without altering match structures. The organization’s medical committee is currently reviewing data from previous tournaments to identify the most effective strategies.
How Did the Media and Public React to the Decision?
The decision to scrap the “cool-down” breaks has been met with widespread approval from media outlets and fans. While some broadcasters initially welcomed the additional commercial opportunities, most have since shifted their stance, recognizing the negative impact on viewing experience. BBC Sport described the breaks as “a misstep that disrupted the natural rhythm of football,” while The Guardian called the decision “a relief for fans and players alike.”
Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with hashtags like #NoMoreCoolDownBreaks trending among football fans. Players have also taken to platforms like Twitter to express their satisfaction:
UEFA’s next major tournament, Euro 2024, begins on June 14, 2024, in Germany. The organization has confirmed that no additional breaks will be introduced, and fans can expect a return to the traditional 90-minute format. For updates on player welfare measures and match scheduling, visit the official UEFA Euro 2024 website.
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