Roberto Carlos: “Hydration breaks are a great idea. I wish we’d had them in our day.”

Hydration breaks have sparked plenty of debate during the World Cup, with much of the discussion focusing on commercial interests and their financial impact. But former Brazil stars Roberto Carlos, Cafu and Bebeto have all praised the three-minute stoppages. As Roberto Carlos put it: “If we’d had them in our day, we would have run even more.”

Roberto Carlos on the hydration breaks at the World Cup 2026

“We didn’t have anything like that in my day! If we’d had breaks to hydrate and recover, they would have created all kinds of situations during the game that could have changed the intensity or given the coach a chance to speak to the players and reorganize the team. This three-minute break is a great idea. It’s good for players to catch their breath and then go back out and raise the tempo again. For me, this break is perfect.”

Cafu backs the breaks

Cafu also believes the breaks are a major benefit.

“They help a lot. Those three minutes to hydrate are essential. If we’d had VAR technology back then, and if we’d had time to hydrate, instead of running 12.5 miles a game, I would’ve run more than 15.5. I would’ve had more energy, been better rested and my body would’ve been in better shape. Every change in soccer is positive, as long as it benefits the players and everyone watching the game.”

Bebeto focuses on the heat

Bebeto, who won the World Cup in the United States under sweltering conditions in 1994, knows exactly what those temperatures are like.

“There’s no doubt they’re very important. Players get more rest, especially at this time of year here in the United States, where the heat is unbearable. We became world champions here, so I know how hot it gets. Now the players have this break to hydrate and recover. That’s extremely important for any soccer player.”

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