FIFA reverses course on water bottle ban after fan outcry ahead of World Cup

FIFA clarifies rule on bringing of disposable water bottles at World Cup games after outcry
LOS ANGELES: 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 an outcry.
“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,” World Cup chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi, said in a video posted on FIFA’s X account.
The announcement, which FIFA called a “clarification” of its water bottle policy, came two days after FIFA said that refillable water bottles wouldn’t be allowed.
That was a change to their official stadium code of conduct that could force thirsty supporters to pay for bottled water.

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.

As FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, explains, fans will not be permitted… pic.twitter.com/ePEHq9oalJ

— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 5, 2026

FIFA justified the move on safety grounds, “to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.
“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” FIFA said in a statement to AFP.
On Friday, FIFA said that those concerns remain valid.
Schirgi said that “fans will not be permitted to bring in hard sided, reusable water bottles due to safety and security reasons,” showing examples of bottles that will and won’t be allowed.
Forecasters have warned that fans could face