FIFA have enacted a last-minute amendment to its stadium code of conduct banning all reusable water bottles at 2026 World Cup venues.
Previously, empty transparent bottles up to one liter were permitted.
The governing body cited strict safety concerns and a desire to prevent the risk of injury.
FIFA stated that local host city committees will provide alternative hydration resources. These include on-site cooling tents, free misting stations, and hydration stations around the stadium footprint.
Read Also:2026 World Cup: Ghana Battle Ready To Face England –Ayew
Strict Safety Concern
In a statement to AFP, a FIFA spokesperson said the rule change was taken on safety grounds, noting that several World Cup venues already barred the use of refillable water bottles.
“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff,” the statement read.
“FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.
“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums.”
The statement added that misting stations, fans, hydration stations and cooling tents would be available in “the stadium footprint”.
Read Also:I Feel Hurt Missing Out Of Scotland’s 2026 World Cup Squad –Gilmour
It added that bottled water inside the venue would be sold at prices which “remain consistent with other events held at each stadium.”
Extreme Heat
The rule change comes despite experts warning fans could face health risks from extreme heat at open-air venues during the World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A report published by the World Weather Attribution research group last month estimated that 26 of 104 games at the World Cup are likely to be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26 degrees.
WBGT is a measure of heat stress on the human body which combines temperature, humidity, wind and sunlight.
At last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where fans complained of searing temperatures, supporters were also barred from bringing water bottles into venues.
