FIFA Reinstates Permission for One Disposable Plastic Water Bottle at 2026 World Cup Venues

FIFA clarifies the rules for bringing disposable water bottles to World Cup matches after receiving public feedback.
In Los Angeles, FIFA announced on Friday that it will permit fans to carry one soft, plastic, factory‑sealed disposable water bottle (20 oz / 590 ml) into World Cup venues, reversing its earlier ban on refillable bottles.
All spectators will be allowed to bring a single, soft plastic 20‑ounce (590 ml) factory‑sealed disposable water bottle into any 2026 FIFA World Cup match in the United States and Canada, according to World Cup chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi, who made the statement in a video posted on FIFA’s X account.
FIFA described this update as a clarification of its water‑bottle policy, which followed a two‑day period after it had prohibited refillable bottles.
The change modifies the official stadium code of conduct, which previously could have required fans to purchase bottled water at venue concession stands.
FIFA said the safety rationale is to reduce risk of injury to players and attendees.
The organization noted that bottled drinks are already prohibited at several venues for safety reasons, and it is extending this restriction to all tournament stadiums.
FIFA reiterated that these safety concerns remain valid on Friday.
Schirgi added that fans may not bring hard‑sided, reusable bottles due to safety and security considerations, and provided examples of acceptable and prohibited bottle types.
Weather forecasts have warned that extreme heat at open‑air venues could pose health risks to fans during the tournament co‑hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A World Weather Attribution report estimated that 26 of the 104 World Cup matches are likely to be played under Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) conditions exceeding 26 °C.
WBGT quantifies heat stress by factoring temperature, humidity, wind, and solar radiation.
During last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, fans reported severe heat and were barred from bringing water bottles into venues.
FIFA said misting stations, hydration points, and cooling tents will be set up within the stadium footprint.
Venue‑sold bottled water will be priced in line with rates at other events held at each stadium, FIFA stated.

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