RTÉ says it will continue showing advertising during World Cup “water breaks,” while reducing the number of ads shown in those intervals. The decision follows criticism after viewers saw ads during recent coverage. RTÉ states it has adjusted its approach to ensure there are not too many advertisements during breaks in play, aiming to balance commercial requirements with viewer experience during live sport. The reports note that RTÉ pundit Richie Sadlier publicly questioned the move, reflecting broader audience concerns about how frequently ads appear during key moments of matches. RTÉ’s position is that ad insertion will remain part of its broadcast schedule but within a capped or constrained format during water-break timings. The outlets agree the controversy centers on the presence and frequency of ads at times when the audience expects a pause in the action and uninterrupted viewing. Overall, the coverage describes a refinement rather than a full change: RTÉ will keep running ads during water breaks, but it says it will do so less extensively than before.