Story perspectives

FIFA's three-minute ad break draws US criticism.

6/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

FIFA introduced a three-minute advert break that turns matches into a four-quarter format in the United States.
Fox airs Powerade advertisements featuring U.S. forward Christian Pulisic during the break.
Paraguay head coach Gustavo Alfaro said the break commodifies football and must be defended.
Critics argue the pause increases FIFA revenue for FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s campaign and disrupts game rhythm, making rolling substitutions easier.

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Story summary

FIFA introduced a three-minute advert break that turns matches into a four-quarter format in the United States.
Fox airs Powerade advertisements featuring U.S. forward Christian Pulisic during the break.
Paraguay head coach Gustavo Alfaro said the break commodifies football and must be defended.
Critics argue the pause increases FIFA revenue for FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s campaign and disrupts game rhythm, making rolling substitutions easier.