FIFA has revised its Stadium Code of Conduct ahead of the 2026 World Cup, banning spectators from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums across the United States, Canada and Mexico, citing safety concerns.
The move comes just days before the tournament gets underway on June 11 and marks a change from the policy outlined last month, which had allowed fans to carry empty, transparent reusable plastic bottles with a capacity of up to one litre.
Under the revised code, updated on June 2, reusable water bottles have been added to the list of prohibited items. FIFA said the restriction is intended to reduce the risk of injury to players and spectators from objects that could be thrown inside stadiums.
Clause 3.1.11 of the updated code prohibits “bottles, cups, jars, cans or any other form of closed or capped receptacle that may be thrown or cause injury”, along with glass objects, hard packages and thermal boxes. The clause specifically states that reusable water bottles will not be allowed inside stadiums.
The revised guidelines also place restrictions on liquids. Alcoholic beverages may only be consumed if purchased within designated areas of the stadium and in accordance with local rules. Other liquids exceeding 100 ml are prohibited unless purchased inside the venue, with limited exceptions for baby food and medically required liquids accompanied by appropriate documentation.
According to a statement cited by The Athletic, FIFA said the decision reflects safety measures already in place at several World Cup venues. “Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” the governing body said.
The change has prompted concerns among supporters over access to drinking water, particularly amid expectations of high temperatures at several host venues during the tournament.
FIFA said it is working with host city committees and local authorities to implement heat-mitigation measures, including hydration stations, cooling tents, misting stations and fans around stadium precincts. The organisation also said water bottle prices inside stadiums would remain in line with those charged during other events at the respective venues.
The 2026 World Cup, the first to be jointly hosted by three countries, will run from June 11 to July 19.
-IANS
