Written by: Mohammed Omran
In a move that sparked widespread controversy ahead of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA decided (FIFAReusable water bottles were banned from stadiums, despite growing warnings of high temperatures in the three host countries.
The new decision has reopened the debate about its impact on the safety of fans, especially given the expectation of extremely hot summer weather during the tournament.
2026 World Cup
FIFA has banned fans from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums for the 2026 World Cup, despite growing warnings that extreme heat could put fans at risk.
FIFA bans reusable bottles at the 2026 World Cup
FIFA’s official stadium code of conduct previously included a clause stating: “To avoid any confusion, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, with a capacity of up to one liter, are permitted to be brought into the stadium.”.
Widespread controversy surrounds FIFA's decision amid concerns about rising temperatures.
However, one newspaper reported that those guidelines have now been amended to explicitly ban refillable bottles.
An updated version of the stadium's code of conduct states: "To avoid any confusion, reusable water bottles are not allowed on the pitch.".
This move has raised questions among fans, especially since the tournament is expected to take place in high summer temperatures across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Climate researchers have warned that parts of North America are increasingly exposed to extreme summer heat, while sports scientists say conditions measured using the Wet Globe Temperature Index could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses in outdoor stadiums.
FIFA says the ban is based on safety considerations.
The organizing body explained in a statement that this law aims to prevent potential risks, adding that some of the host stadiums already prohibit bringing bottles in from outside.
She also mentioned the provision of humidification stations, cooling areas, and misting systems inside the stadiums.
However, critics say the decision could leave fans with limited and potentially more expensive options for staying hydrated during matches.
In previous tournaments held in hot conditions, similar restrictions on outside drinks have sparked controversy over fan comfort and stadium prices.
The United States, Canada and Mexico will jointly host the 2026 World Cup, with organizers promising to upgrade facilities and services for fans as part of preparations for the expanded tournament.
The recent change in rules is likely to keep the focus on how well those promises hold up once the tournament begins.
