FIFA Bans Spectator Water Bottles Ahead of World Cup

FIFA has tightened its rules for spectators just before the World Cup, banning the entry of water bottles into stadiums, according to The Athletic. Previously, fans were allowed to bring empty, transparent plastic bottles up to one liter. However, a rule change in early June now states, "To avoid ambiguities: reusable water bottles are not allowed to be brought into the stadium."

The ban extends to all bottles for security reasons, as FIFA fears they could be thrown at players or other spectators. The Athletic suggests this move might upset fans, especially since the World Cup will be held in the middle of summer with potentially high temperatures. Fans will no longer be able to refill their own bottles for free at stadium water stations.

High temperatures were a significant topic during last summer's Club World Cup in the United States, where bottled water at stadiums cost between $4 and $6 (3.5–5.2 euros). The men's World Cup this year will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, starting June 11 and concluding July 19, featuring a record 48 teams across 16 host cities.

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To avoid ambiguities: reusable water bottles are not allowed to be brought into the stadium.