Water bottles barred from World Cup stadia

FIFA has implemented a last-minute policy change for the 2026 World Cup, banning fans from bringing their own refillable water bottles into stadiums. This decision, reported by The Athletic, will compel attendees to buy water sold within the venues, with FIFA stating prices will remain consistent with other events held at these locations.

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FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff.

Previously, FIFA's official stadium code of conduct explicitly allowed empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles up to 1 liter. However, these guidelines have been revised to explicitly prohibit all reusable water bottles. A FIFA spokesperson explained the change was made on safety grounds, noting that many World Cup venues already had similar restrictions in place to prevent potential risks and injuries to players and spectators.

The organization also stated that misting stations, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents will be available within the stadium premises. Despite these measures, the ban comes amid warnings from experts about the potential health risks posed by extreme heat during the tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A recent report suggested that a significant number of World Cup games could be played under conditions of high heat stress.

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FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.

Concerns have been raised about fan welfare, particularly given the potential for intense heat during matches. While FIFA maintains the ban is for safety, critics point to the potential financial burden on fans and the health implications in hot weather, especially as the tournament is scheduled to take place in North America during the summer months.

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Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums.