FIFA U-turns on water bottle policy in stadiums

FIFA has U-turned on its stadium policy for the World Cup 2026, now permitting fans to bring disposable water bottles into match venues. The reversal follows swift backlash from supporters and host city officials after an initial ban was implemented earlier in the week.

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No one should have to fear being priced out of being hydrated, especially fans who are often waiting for hours before a game in extreme heat.

Under the revised policy, all fans will be allowed to carry one soft, plastic, 20-ounce (590ml), factory-sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada. FIFA stated that hard-sided, reusable water bottles are still prohibited due to safety and security reasons. The governing body had previously allowed only empty, transparent, reusable bottles up to 1 liter.

The initial ban meant fans would have to purchase water and other beverages from stadium concession stands, raising concerns about affordability and access, especially in potentially extreme heat. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a vocal advocate for equitable World Cup access, welcomed the decision, emphasizing that no fan should be priced out of staying hydrated. He has previously made lower-cost tickets available to city residents.

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All fans will be permitted to bring in one soft, plastic, 20-ounce (590ml), factory-sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada.

Forecasters have warned of significant health risks from extreme heat during the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. A recent report suggested that a quarter of the 104 World Cup games could be played in conditions with high heat stress. FIFA has stated that misting stations, fans, and cooling tents will be available within stadium perimeters.

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Fans will not be permitted to bring in hard-sided, reusable water bottles due to safety and security reasons.