United States: FIFA has banned spectators from bringing refillable water bottles into stadiums during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reversing an earlier policy that permitted fans to carry empty reusable bottles into venues.
The decision, announced through an updated stadium code of conduct, comes just months before the tournament begins across the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA said the measure was introduced for safety reasons and will be applied uniformly across all World Cup venues.
Under the revised guidelines, reusable water bottles are now prohibited inside stadiums. Previously, fans had been allowed to bring transparent, empty refillable plastic bottles with a capacity of up to one litre.
A FIFA spokesperson said the policy aims to protect players, officials, spectators and staff, noting that several host venues already prohibited outside bottles. The governing body added that hydration stations, cooling tents, misting areas and other heat-relief facilities will be available within stadium premises.
The move has drawn attention amid growing concerns over extreme temperatures expected during the tournament. Climate researchers have warned that a significant number of World Cup matches could be played under conditions posing elevated heat-stress risks for players and spectators.
FIFA said bottled water will remain available for purchase inside venues and that pricing will be consistent with existing stadium policies.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and is set to be the largest edition of the tournament in the competition’s history.