FIFA has eased its World Cup water bottle restrictions, allowing fans to bring one sealed plastic bottle into stadiums after criticism.
FIFA has softened its controversial water bottle policy just days before the start of the 2026 World Cup. The governing body confirmed supporters will be allowed to bring a sealed plastic water bottle into stadiums across the United States and Canada.
The decision follows widespread criticism from fan groups, politicians and health experts. Concerns had grown over supporter welfare, particularly with high temperatures expected during the tournament.
Earlier this week, FIFA updated its Stadium Code of Conduct and removed a provision that had allowed fans to bring empty reusable plastic bottles into venues. The late policy change surprised supporters preparing to attend matches across North America.
FIFA argued that reusable bottles posed a safety risk because they could be thrown and potentially injure players, officials or spectators. The revised rules also prohibited other hard containers, including cans, jars and cups.
The announcement quickly generated backlash. Fan groups questioned why supporters would be prevented from bringing refillable bottles while drinks remained available for purchase inside stadiums. Critics also pointed to the timing of the decision. With the tournament only days away, many supporters felt FIFA had changed the rules without adequate notice.
Facing mounting pressure, FIFA issued a clarification on Friday. World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi confirmed that spectators can bring one factory-sealed disposable plastic water bottle into stadiums. The permitted bottle must be soft-sided and contain no more than 20 ounces, approximately 590 millilitres. Hard-sided reusable containers will still be prohibited under the updated regulations.
According to FIFA, the adjustment balances supporter welfare with stadium security requirements. The governing body maintained that hard containers present a greater risk if used as projectiles. The clarification effectively represents a partial reversal of the original restriction. Supporters can now carry water into venues, although reusable bottles remain banned.
The discussion intensified because of weather forecasts for several host cities. Temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius are expected at a number of venues during the competition. Researchers and heat experts warned that limiting access to water could increase the risk of dehydration. Supporters often spend several hours travelling to stadiums, waiting in queues and remaining in exposed seating areas.
FIFA responded by highlighting additional heat-mitigation measures. Host cities will provide hydration stations, cooling tents, misting areas and other resources around stadium precincts. The organisation also stated that water prices inside stadiums would remain consistent with standard venue pricing during non-World Cup events.
Fan organisations were among the strongest critics of the original ban. Many argued that hydration should be prioritised at a tournament expected to feature challenging weather conditions. Political figures also joined the debate. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the policy as "wrong" and questioned whether it would place additional financial burdens on travelling supporters.
The revised guidance has been welcomed as a practical compromise. While reusable bottles remain prohibited, fans now have a straightforward way to bring water into stadiums.
The 2026 World Cup begins on June 11 and runs through July 19. Co-hosts Mexico open the tournament against South Africa at the Azteca Stadium. The expanded competition will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA will continue monitoring heat-related conditions throughout the tournament as supporters prepare for football's biggest event.
