FIFA's water bottle ban for World Cup 2026 draws fan anger amid heat warnings

FIFA's decision to ban reusable water bottles and gourds from all stadiums hosting the 2026 World Cup has sparked significant backlash from supporters and raised concerns amid extreme heat forecasts.

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To avoid any ambiguity, reusable water bottles are not permitted inside the stadium.

The international football governing body has tightened its regulations, prohibiting the entry of personal water containers. This move reverses an earlier provision in the May 2026 Code of Conduct, which permitted spectators to bring one-liter empty, transparent plastic containers to be filled at water fountains within the venues. The updated charter now explicitly states: "To avoid any ambiguity, reusable water bottles are not permitted inside the stadium."

FIFA defends the ban as a necessary security measure to prevent potential injuries. A spokesperson cited concerns that rigid bottles could be used as projectiles targeting players, referees, or other spectators. The organization also noted that this is a global harmonization, as external bottles are already prohibited in many venues for security reasons.

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The organization has made the decision to ban bottles in order to prevent risks and injuries to players and spectators.

However, fan associations are vehemently contesting the decision, viewing it as a commercially driven move that compromises public health. Climate scientists have pointed out that a quarter of the matches, including the final in New Jersey, are expected to be played in stifling heat and high humidity. FIFA has pledged to implement heat mitigation measures, such as misting zones, giant fans, and cooling tents, and has assured that mandatory "cool-down" breaks will be included in each half. The organization also stated that the price of water bottles sold inside the stadiums will remain consistent with prices at other events held at these venues.

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At the approach of the kick-off of the Mondial 2026, the international body has tightened its regulations by formally prohibiting the access of stadiums to personal water bottles.