FIFA has revised its policy regarding water bottles for the upcoming World Cup in North America, now allowing fans to bring one sealed, disposable 20-ounce (590ml) bottle into the stadiums.
Previously, ticket holders were allowed to carry an empty, clear, reusable bottle up to one liter. However, a recent update indicated that reusable bottles would no longer be permitted.
This decision faced backlash from fan organizations and experts, who voiced concerns about the potential impact of extreme heat on spectator safety. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the ban as “wrong,” suggesting it was driven by profit motives.
Policy Change Announcement
In a partial reversal of its earlier stance, FIFA announced that “all fans will be permitted to bring in one, soft, plastic, 20 ounces (590ml), factory sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada.”
Heimo Schirgi, the chief operating officer for World Cup 2026, clarified that rigid resealable containers would still be prohibited due to safety and security concerns.
Context from Previous Events
During last summer’s Club World Cup held in the United States, fans were allowed to carry empty bottles into the venues. Additionally, water was available for purchase within the stadiums, priced between $4 and $6 (approximately £3 to £4.50).
Criticism of the Ban
FIFA had justified the ban by stating it aimed to “prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.” However, Starmer expressed his disapproval, stating in an interview with British radio station LBC, “It’s just wrong. And I can’t help but think that it’s about making money.”
“So you can’t bring plastic bottles in but you can buy a bottle of water when you get in the crowd? And then it’ll be expensive. The tickets themselves cost a fortune, far too expensive in my view. So the ticket sales are too high. And this is the wrong policy.”
