‘I don’t like it’ – USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino hits out a ‘unnecessary’ hydration break rule

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has publicly criticized FIFA's mandatory hydration break rule at the 2026 World Cup, stating 'I don't like it' and arguing the stoppages are unnecessary when playing conditions are not extreme. The rule, introduced for the 2026 tournament, requires breaks in each half as part of FIFA's player-welfare policy. Pochettino's comments came on June 12, 2026, ahead of or during the early stages of the tournament.