Fans attending matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will now be allowed to bring disposable water bottles into stadiums after widespread criticism greeted the initial decision to ban all bottles from match venues.
FIFA announced on Friday that supporters will be permitted to carry one factory-sealed, soft plastic water bottle of up to 590ml into stadiums across the United States and Canada, a move seen as a response to concerns over fan welfare amid fears of extreme heat during the tournament.
The clarification came just two days after FIFA stated that refillable water bottles would not be allowed inside venues, a policy that sparked backlash from supporters who argued it could force fans to purchase bottled water at stadiums during potentially sweltering conditions.
While easing the restriction, FIFA maintained that hard-sided reusable bottles remain prohibited for safety and security reasons.
World Cup Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, explained that only soft, factory-sealed disposable bottles would be accepted, stressing that the decision was intended to balance fan comfort with security requirements.
The revised policy comes against the backdrop of growing concerns about heat-related health risks during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A recent report by the World Weather Attribution research group projected that 26 of the tournament’s 104 matches could be played under conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees Celsius, a level associated with heightened heat stress risks.
The concerns are not new. During last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, fans complained about intense temperatures while similar restrictions on water bottles were in place.
To mitigate the impact of extreme weather, FIFA said hydration stations, cooling tents, fans and misting stations would be available around stadium precincts throughout the competition.
The football governing body also assured supporters that bottled water sold inside venues would be priced in line with rates charged during other events held at the respective stadiums.
The latest adjustment highlights FIFA’s effort to strike a balance between security protocols and the welfare of thousands of fans expected to attend what will be the largest World Cup in history.
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