Adedokun Waliyu 
FIFA said Friday it will allow fans to bring one “soft, plastic” disposable water bottle into World Cup venues after its ban on refillable bottles sparked widespread criticism.
“All fans will be permitted to bring in one soft, plastic 20-ounce (590ml), factory-sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada,” World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi said in a video posted on FIFA’s X account.
The announcement, which FIFA described as a “clarification” of its water bottle policy, came two days after the organization stated that refillable water bottles would not be allowed inside stadiums. The earlier decision raised concerns that supporters would be forced to purchase bottled water at venues.
FIFA said the restriction was based on safety concerns, explaining that the policy was intended “to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.”
According to FIFA, outside bottles are already prohibited at several tournament venues for safety reasons, and the same consideration is being applied across World Cup stadiums.
Despite the adjustment, FIFA maintained that safety concerns remain valid. Schirgi emphasized that fans will not be allowed to bring hard-sided reusable water bottles into stadiums because of security considerations.
Health experts and weather forecasters have warned that supporters may face risks from extreme heat during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A report by the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of the 104 World Cup matches are likely to be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26 degrees. WBGT measures heat stress on the human body by combining factors such as temperature, humidity, wind, and sunlight.
During last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, fans also complained about extremely high temperatures and were similarly prohibited from bringing water bottles into venues.
FIFA stated that misting stations, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents will be available around stadium areas to help spectators cope with the heat.
The organization also said that bottled water sold inside venues will be priced in line with rates charged during other events held at each stadium.
