FIFA has banned fans from bringing refillable water bottles into stadiums for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a decision that will require supporters to buy bottled water inside the venues.
According to reports, FIFA recently changed its stadium rules. Last month, the guidelines allowed fans to bring empty, clear reusable plastic bottles with a capacity of up to one litre into stadiums.
However, the updated rules now clearly state that reusable water bottles will not be allowed inside any World Cup venue.
Explaining the decision, FIFA said the change was made for safety reasons.
“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff,” a FIFA spokesperson said.
“FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risks and injuries to players and spectators.
“Several venues already banned outside bottles for safety reasons, and FIFA has decided to apply the same rule across all World Cup stadiums.”
FIFA said fans would still have access to hydration facilities around the stadiums, including misting stations, cooling tents and water stations.
The governing body also said bottled water sold inside the venues would be priced similarly to other events held at the stadiums.
The decision comes despite concerns about high temperatures during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A recent study by the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of the 104 matches at the tournament could be played in conditions where heat stress levels exceed recommended limits.
The study used the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), a measure that combines temperature, humidity, sunlight and wind to assess how heat affects the human body.
Fans also faced a similar restriction during last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where many supporters complained about extremely hot conditions at some venues.
