FIFA bans reusable water bottles in 2026 World Cup stadiums

FIFA has announced a late change to its regulations: fans will not be able to enter the 16 stadiums of the 2026 World Cup in North America with reusable water bottles. The new version of the “Stadium Code of Conduct”, dated Tuesday, states “for the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium. »

The measure comes as several host sites have little or no shade and high temperatures are expected in several cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada during the competition. FIFA justifies the ban “to prevent risks and injuries to players and spectators”. The body also specifies that certain venues already had such a ban in place, and that the rule now applies uniformly to all stadiums.

The decision was strongly criticized by supporters groups. The English Free Lions movement denounced on Thursday a measure contrary to the assurances received on the possibility of entering with empty plastic bottles to fill them for free in the stadiums. “Naturally, fans' first reaction is to think that this is just another money-making operation,” the group said.

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FIFA reminds that the water, sodas and juices sold in the stadiums will be supplied exclusively by its historic sponsor, Coca-Cola, from the start of the tournament. The body ensures, however, that “heat mitigation” measures will be deployed when approaching the enclosures: misting stations, fans, hydration points, cooling tents, and other devices to help spectators cool down.

Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House World Cup task force, said discussions were still ongoing with FIFA about the ban. “We need to find a balance between preparing for high temperatures and managing security risks,” he explained during a press briefing in Miami. He also highlighted an argument put forward by authorities: “if something is frozen, you can throw it away and use it as a weapon.”

Also present in Miami, FIFA President Gianni Infantino did not take questions from journalists on Thursday evening. FIFA adds that, for inside stadiums, the prices of bottled water will remain “consistent with other events held in each venue”. The body has also introduced three-minute hygienic breaks in the middle of each half to cope with the heat.

For critics, this new ban, decided so late, is incomprehensible in view of the announcements on hydration devices and breaks for players. The Free Lions group on Thursday called the decision “such a strange and late change,” saying it contradicts previous exchanges between supporters and organizers.

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