The USA national team posted a satirical AI-generated image on social media mocking mandatory hydration breaks introduced at the 2026 World Cup. The image showed players consuming beer and hot dogs while barbecuing, with coach Mauricio Pochettino tending a grill in the background. Mandatory hydration pauses occur at the 22nd and 67th minutes of each match per tournament regulations.
The hydration breaks were implemented for player safety in the tournament's North American venues during warm weather conditions. However, the stoppages have drawn criticism from fans and analysts who suspect commercial interests drive the additional advertising slots created during each pause.
Mauricio Pochettino is a 53-year-old Argentine who will turn 54 in November 2026. He was a centre-back during his playing days. Pochettino began his senior career at Newell’s Old Boys, moved to Espanyol, and then transferred to Paris Saint-Germain for about €5 million. He earned 20 caps for Argentina between 1999 and 2002, and after a managerial spell, he took over the USMNT in 2024.