FIFA Unlikely to Change WCup Kickoffs over Heat
The chairman of FIFA's medical committee said the World Cup match schedule is unlikely to change despite the international players' union voicing concerns about 1 p.m. kickoffs in Brazil's heat and humidity.
Michel D'Hooghe told The Associated Press that "I will be surprised if we can change it. Everything is arranged."
FIFA President Sepp Blatter has said kickoff times are "established but not sanctioned," and could be discussed in Brazil ahead of next Friday's draw.
The FIFPro union is concerned that seven of 64 matches have 1 p.m. starts in the tropical cities of Fortaleza, Natal, Recife and Salvador.
D'Hooghe added: "There will be matches in warm temperatures and you have to be prepared."
The Belgian doctor said FIFA allows drinks breaks when temperatures top 32 degrees (89.6 Fahrenheit).
Source: Associated Press
| Copyright © 2012 Naharnet.com. All Rights Reserved. | https://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/107842 |