FIFA has banned fans from bringing refillable water bottles into World Cup stadiums in a last-minute policy change that will require spectators to purchase bottled water inside venues, according to a report by The Athletic.
The report said FIFA’s updated stadium code of conduct now explicitly states that “reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium,” reversing an earlier guideline that allowed empty, transparent bottles of up to one litre.
In a statement to AFP, FIFA said the decision was taken on safety grounds, adding that several host venues already prohibit refillable bottles.
“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff,” the governing body said. “FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.”
FIFA added that cooling measures such as misting stations, fans, hydration points and cooling tents would be available within stadium areas to help spectators cope with heat conditions.
The statement also noted that bottled water sold inside venues would be priced in line with other major events at each stadium.
The rule change comes amid warnings from climate researchers that parts of the 2026 World Cup — hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico — could be played in extreme heat conditions, with some matches expected to exceed dangerous heat stress thresholds.
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