Rapinoe criticizes World Cup hydration breaks as ad-driven interruptions
Megan Rapinoe criticized the World Cup hydration breaks as an “unnatural” and disruptive intrusion on the flow of soccer, arguing they reflect a sponsorship-driven approach that places ads above player welfare. While broadcast partners like Fox reportedly profit from the breaks, Telemundo has avoided full-screen ads to preserve the viewing experience, underscoring a broader clash between commercial interests and fans’ and players’ experience.