FIFA has announced that spectators attending matches at the 2026 World Cup in the United States and Canada will be allowed to carry one sealed disposable plastic water bottle into stadiums, following widespread criticism of its earlier restrictions.
In a video shared on FIFA’s X platform on Friday, World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi stated that each fan may bring a factory-sealed plastic water bottle of up to 20 ounces (590ml) into any match venue in the U.S. and Canada.
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The governing body described the move as a clarification of its policy, coming just two days after it revealed that reusable water bottles would not be permitted inside stadiums.
The previous rule, which amended FIFA’s official stadium code of conduct, raised concerns that supporters would be compelled to purchase water at venue concession stands.
FIFA defended the restriction by citing safety considerations, explaining that the measure was intended to reduce potential risks to players and spectators.
According to a statement provided to AFP, many host stadiums already prohibit outside containers for security reasons, and FIFA chose to apply a consistent standard across all tournament venues.
Despite the adjustment announced on Friday, FIFA maintained that safety concerns remain a priority. Schirgi clarified that hard-sided reusable bottles will continue to be banned, while demonstrating examples of approved and prohibited containers.
The policy debate comes amid growing concerns about extreme temperatures expected during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Researchers from the World Weather Attribution group reported last month that 26 of the tournament’s 104 matches could be played under conditions where the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26 degrees Celsius.
WBGT is an internationally recognised indicator of heat stress that factors in air temperature, humidity, sunlight exposure and wind conditions.
Similar concerns surfaced during last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where fans complained about intense heat and were also prevented from bringing water bottles into stadiums.
FIFA has said a range of cooling measures will be available around stadium grounds, including hydration stations, misting areas, cooling tents and fans to help spectators cope with high temperatures.
The organisation added that water sold inside venues will be priced in line with rates charged during other events hosted at the same stadiums.
AFP
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