Keith Hackett 'cynical' of World Cup hydration breaks after what he saw in Haiti vs Scotland

FIFA must change how teams are using much-needed hydration breaks are during the 2026 World Cup.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that managers and head coaches are taking advantage of the stoppage in play.

Hydration breaks have been a huge talking point throughout the summer's tournament, and Scotland's 1-0 win over Haiti made headlines, but maybe not for the reasons that many expected.

Aston Villa star John McGinn scored the only goal of the game, despite great pressure from Haiti in the closing stages, but it was a stoppage in play that caused controversy.

In the first half, the Scots had won a corner, and as the players prepared for the in-swinging cross, referee Mustapha Ghorbal blew his whistle for the mandatory drinks break.

FIFA have new problem with hydration breaks

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee failed to understand why play was brought to a stop at such an important moment, while also condemning the team's use of the break in play.

"He's probably got a blast in his ear. I'm very cynical about these water breaks. I know the importance of hydration, don't get me wrong," he said.

"But I think they've missed the trick. I think first of all, the ball is out of play. So in that sense, he's called a break when the ball is out of play. So you can't over-criticise the referee.

"However, I much prefer that he would have allowed the corner kick to be taken and then wait for the next break. The cynical side of me says two things.

"Are these actually hydration breaks? People can have a drink, fine. But it seems to me that tactical changes and tactics are being employed at that particular time. So I think the trick they should have missed is this.

"I think they should have had a trolley, like a golf cart, and that comes straight onto the middle of the pitch. The players remain on the field of play.

"There is no verbal contact between coaching staff because I think three minutes could be reduced with a different approach. It breaks up the momentum. And it's just an opportunity to show ads."

England sent warning ahead of their World Cup opener

Scotland are not the only home nation in action, with England set to face Croatia, Ghana and Panama in Group L, with the expectation of winning the entire tournament.

Thomas Tuchel has a huge task on his hands, with Spain and France bigger favourites to lift the trophy, and now he has a FIFA official to overcome as well.

The Three Lions' opening game against Croatia will be officiated by Clement Turpin, who has history with the head coach and Jude Bellingham in the Champions League.

Tuchel labelled the referee as "Grade E" and "absolutely terrible" following a clash between Bayern Munich and Manchester City in 2023. He will be hoping to avoid making similar comments again this time.