Attendees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will not be allowed to bring reusable water bottles into stadiums after the governing body introduced a last-minute change to its Stadium Code of Conduct, citing safety concerns.
FIFA had previously permitted fans to carry empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles into venues. However, an updated code that came into effect on Tuesday now prohibits them, bringing the tournament's rules in line with restrictions already in place at several host stadiums.
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The decision means reusable bottles join a list of prohibited items that includes bottles, cups, jars and cans, which are barred from venues due to the risk of being thrown and causing injury.
"FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff," the organisation told Reuters in a statement. "FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles 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."
The move has sparked concerns among supporters about access to drinking water during matches, particularly with temperatures at some venues expected to hover between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius during the tournament.
FIFA said host cities and local authorities are putting in place a range of measures to help spectators cope with the heat.
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"FIFA works closely with each Host City Committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans traveling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium footprint," the statement said.
The governing body also sought to reassure fans over the cost of staying hydrated during matches.
"Inside the stadium footprint, pricing for water bottles for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at each stadium."
The expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, runs from June 11 to July 19. The tournament will feature 104 matches, up from 64 in previous editions, following the introduction of an additional knockout round.
