FIFA has introduced a last-minute update to its stadium code of conduct ahead of the 2026 World Cup, banning all reusable water bottles across tournament venues.
Under the previous policy, fans were allowed to enter with empty transparent bottles of up to one litre, but that provision has now been scrapped.
The governing body said the decision was driven by strict safety considerations and efforts to eliminate potential risks of injury inside stadiums.
Instead, FIFA stated that local host city committees will roll out alternative hydration measures, including cooling tents, free misting stations, and designated hydration points distributed around the stadium perimeter.
In a statement to AFP, a FIFA spokesperson explained that the revision was based on safety concerns, adding that several host venues already maintain similar restrictions.
“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff,” the statement read.
“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 statement further noted that fans will still have access to misting systems, cooling fans, hydration stations, and shaded relief areas within the “stadium footprint.”
It also confirmed that bottled water sold inside venues will be priced in line with other major events at each stadium.
Heat concerns during tournament
The adjustment comes amid ongoing warnings from experts about extreme heat conditions expected during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico under the supervision of FIFA.
A recent study by the World Weather Attribution group projected that 26 of the 104 scheduled matches could be played under conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26°C.
WBGT measures heat stress on the human body by factoring in temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation.
At last year’s FIFA Club World Cup, where spectators also endured high temperatures, similar restrictions were already enforced, with fans prohibited from bringing water bottles into stadiums.
