FIFA announced Friday it will allow fans to bring one “soft, plastic” disposable water bottle into World Cup venues after its ban on refillable bottles sparked an outcry.
“All fans will be permitted to bring in one, soft, plastic 20 ounces (590ml), factory sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada,” World Cup chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi, said in a video posted on FIFA’s X account.
The announcement, which FIFA described as a “clarification” of its water bottle regulation, came two days after FIFA stated that refillable water bottles would not be permitted.
This was a revision to their official stadium code of conduct, which might force thirsty fans to pay for bottled water.
FIFA defended the move on safety grounds, “to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.
“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” FIFA said in a statement to AFP.
On Friday, FIFA noted that those concerns remain valid.
Schirgi said that “fans will not be permitted to bring in hard-sided, reusable water bottles due to safety and security reasons,” showing examples of bottles that will and won’t be allowed.
Forecasters have cautioned that excessive temperatures could pose health hazards to fans at open-air venues during the World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to a report issued last month by the World Weather Attribution research group, 26 of the 104 World Cup games are projected to be played in conditions with a Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) greater than 26 degrees.
WBGT is a measure of heat stress on the human body that incorporates temperature, humidity, wind, and sunlight.
Last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where fans complained about scorching temperatures, supporters were also prohibited from taking water bottles into venues.
FIFA has stated that misting systems, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents will be accessible within “the stadium footprint.”
Bottled water will be available inside the venue at pricing that “remains consistent with other events held at each stadium,” according to the World football governing body.
