FIFA bans reusable water bottles at 2026 World Cup stadiums

FIFA has reversed its policy and will now prohibit fans from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums for the upcoming World Cup, citing safety concerns. The last-minute change to the tournament's stadium code of conduct comes despite warnings about extreme heat at venues across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The governing body had previously permitted spectators to carry empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles of up to one liter in capacity. The updated code explicitly bans those items, along with other containers such as cups, jars, and cans, to prevent the risk of injury if they are thrown. In a statement, FIFA said the decision was made to protect the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff. The organization noted that outside bottles are already prohibited at several of the tournament venues for safety considerations and that it is applying this rule consistently across all stadiums.

The policy shift has drawn criticism from supporters, who are concerned about heat, humidity, and access to affordable drinking water. With reusable bottles banned, fans will be required to purchase water inside the venues. FIFA stated that...