FIFA have introduced a last-minute update to their stadium code of conduct, prohibiting fans from carrying reusable water bottles into any venue during the 2026 World Cup. The change reverses a previous rule that allowed empty, transparent bottles of up to one liter.

The governing body justified the ban on safety grounds, stating that the measure is intended to prevent the risk of injury to players and spectators alike. A FIFA spokesperson confirmed the decision in a statement to AFP.

"FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff. FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees."

FIFA noted that reusable bottles were already banned at several of the tournament's host venues, and the organisation has now extended that restriction uniformly across all 2026 World Cup stadiums.

Alternative hydration measures

In response to concerns about fan welfare, FIFA said local host city committees will put in place a range of hydration resources around each stadium. These include free misting stations, cooling tents, and dedicated hydration points within the stadium footprint.

The organisation also confirmed that bottled water will be available for purchase inside venues, at prices described as consistent with those charged at other events held at each respective stadium.

Heat concerns cloud the policy

The ban has drawn scrutiny given warnings from health and climate experts about dangerous heat conditions at the tournament. The 2026 World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with many matches scheduled at open-air venues during the height of summer.

A report from the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of 104 matches at the tournament are likely to be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees — a threshold that combines temperature, humidity, wind, and sunlight to measure heat stress on the human body.

The controversy is not without precedent. At the FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States last year, fans were similarly barred from bringing their own water bottles into stadiums and reported suffering in intense heat during matches.