The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that matches during the final phase of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations will include two mandatory heat breaks. This decision comes in response to the extreme temperatures in Egypt during June and July, which can reach between 35°C and 38°C with humidity levels of 40–60%, posing potential health risks to players and officials.
According to FIFA regulations, games played in high temperatures can include short breaks, usually around the 30th and 75th minutes, lasting no longer than three minutes each. These pauses allow players and referees to hydrate and recover briefly without disrupting the flow of the match. CAF has emphasized that these breaks will be carefully organized, both in pre-tournament planning and ahead of each game, to ensure safety and efficiency.
Logistical arrangements for the heat breaks include the provision of refrigerated containers on wheels stocked with crushed ice and drinks, as well as cold, moist towels for the 26 individuals on the field—22 players and 4 referees. These measures are designed to mitigate the effects of the intense North African heat while maintaining performance and safety standards during the competition.
The implementation of heat breaks reflects CAF’s commitment to player welfare and adherence to international standards, ensuring that matches remain competitive while prioritizing health in challenging weather conditions.
