FIFA has banned fans from carrying reusable water bottles into stadiums during the 2026 World Cup, citing safety concerns in a last-minute change to its stadium code of conduct.
The decision marks a sharp reversal from just last month, when FIFA had permitted empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles of up to one litre inside venues. The updated code, which came into effect on Tuesday, now prohibits them entirely.
Other items including bottles, cups, jars and cans are also banned to prevent the risk of injury if thrown at players or fans.
“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff,” the organisation said in a statement to a foreign media outlet. “FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees,” it added.
FIFA also pointed to existing restrictions at several host venues. “Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” it added.
The ban has raised concerns among supporters about dealing with the heat, with temperatures at some venues expected to range between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius (79 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Access to drinking water inside stadiums has also come into question.
FIFA said that it will put measures in place to help fans manage the conditions. “FIFA works closely with each Host City Committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans travelling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium footprint,” the statement said. FIFA added that water bottle pricing inside stadiums will stay consistent with other events held at each venue.
The 48-team tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, runs from June 11 to July 19.
