Fifa has made a last-minute decision to prohibit supporters and volunteers from carrying reusable water bottles into World Cup venues this summer. The 48-team tournament, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will see many matches played in hot weather conditions.
According to Fifa, the ban is intended to “prevent risk and injury to players and attendees,” and also extends to other items such as cans and cups. Previously, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles were allowed under Fifa’s Stadium Code of Conduct, but the policy was changed just a week before the tournament kicks off.
Heat Mitigation Measures
Fifa has assured that “misting stations, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents” will be available around stadiums to help fans stay cool. However, drinking water will only be available for purchase inside the venues. A Fifa statement emphasized the organisation’s commitment to health and safety: “Fifa is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff. 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 reasons, and Fifa is applying this rule uniformly across all tournament stadiums. The statement added: “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. Inside the stadium footprint, pricing for water bottles for the Fifa World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at each stadium.”
Reaction and Concerns
The decision has sparked debate among fans and advocacy groups, who argue that banning reusable bottles could lead to dehydration and increased plastic waste. Critics also question the timing of the change, given the expected high temperatures during the tournament. Fifa, however, insists that the measures are necessary to ensure safety and that alternative cooling options are sufficient.
The World Cup is set to begin in June 2026, with matches taking place across 16 cities in North America.
