FIFA ban reusable water bottles from 2026 World Cup stadiums in late change

FIFA have banned supporters from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums for the 2026 World Cup in North America just days before the tournament begins.

The global showpiece, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, gets underway on 11 June.

Fans attending the opening fixture between Mexico and South Africa have been informed of the abruptly updated code of conduct.

World football’s governing body had previously permitted empty, transparent plastic containers of up to one litre in capacity.

Safety concerns prompt abrupt policy shift

The sudden reversal comes after official guidelines were amended on 2 June, removing the option for attendees to refill containers at free water dispensers.

Organisers stated the decision was made to prevent the risk of items being thrown onto the pitch and causing injury to players.

The international federation also noted that bringing outside drinks was already banned at several of the selected host venues.

“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums.”

To combat the severe summer temperatures across the host nations, alternative cooling measures will be implemented.

Heat mitigation and rising costs

Local authorities plan to provide misting stations, hydration zones and cooling tents around the stadium perimeters.

However, the prohibition means attendees must now purchase bottled water at standard venue prices once inside the turnstiles.

Supporters have expressed immense frustration over the U-turn across social media.

The late change compounds existing fan concerns regarding the exorbitant costs associated with securing tickets, accommodation and international travel for the month-long event.