FIFA Allows Disposable Water Bottles at 2026 World Cup Venues

FIFA has revised its water bottle policy for the 2026 World Cup, allowing fans to bring one factory-sealed disposable plastic water bottle into stadiums after facing criticism over an earlier ban on refillable bottles.

The world football governing body announced the decision on Friday, describing it as a clarification of its stadium regulations ahead of next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

FIFA Revises Water Bottle Policy After Backlash

In a video posted on its official X account, FIFA World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi said supporters would be permitted to carry one soft plastic disposable bottle containing up to 20 ounces (590ml) of water into match venues in the United States and Canada.

“All fans will be permitted to bring in one, soft, plastic 20 ounces (590ml), factory sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada,” Schirgi said.

The announcement comes two days after FIFA stated that refillable water bottles would not be allowed inside stadiums, a move that drew criticism from supporters concerned about hydration and the cost of purchasing water at venues.

FIFA said the restrictions were introduced for safety and security reasons.

According to the organisation, hard-sided reusable bottles could pose risks to players, officials and spectators.

Schirgi reiterated that position on Friday, noting that reusable bottles would remain prohibited throughout the tournament.

“Fans will not be permitted to bring in hard-sided, reusable water bottles due to safety and security reasons,” he said.

Heat Concerns Raise Questions Over Fan Safety

The revised policy comes amid growing concerns about extreme temperatures that supporters may face during the tournament.

Weather experts have warned that several matches could be played under conditions that present health risks to players and spectators.

A report published last month by the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of the tournament’s 104 matches could be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26 degrees Celsius.

WBGT is a widely used measure of heat stress that takes into account temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation.

Concerns about heat were also raised during the FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States last year, where supporters complained about high temperatures at several venues.

FIFA Promises Cooling Measures at Stadiums

FIFA said additional measures would be put in place to help fans cope with the heat during the tournament.

The organisation noted that stadium precincts would include hydration stations, misting areas, cooling tents and fans to improve spectator comfort.

The governing body also confirmed that bottled water would be available for purchase inside venues, with prices remaining consistent with those charged during other events hosted at the stadiums.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is expected to be the largest edition of the tournament in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across North America.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.