FIFA reverses water bottle ban for 2026 World Cup following public outcry
Policy change comes amid concerns over extreme heat, though uncertainties remain regarding implementation in Mexico and stadium hydration infrastructure.
FIFA has reversed its decision to prohibit spectators from bringing water bottles into stadiums for the 2026 World Cup in the United States and Canada. The governing body announced the policy shift on Friday, following significant public backlash and accusations that the initial ban constituted a "money grab." Under the revised regulations, fans are permitted to bring one factory-sealed, soft water bottle per person, with a maximum capacity of 20 ounces.
The announcement was made by FIFA Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirg via a video statement. The new rule largely reinstates a prior policy that allowed ticket-holders to carry empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles up to one litre, though the updated mandate specifically requires bottles to be factory-sealed and soft. This adjustment addresses safety concerns regarding extreme heat during the tournament, which runs from 11 June to 19 July across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The initial prohibition, announced on Wednesday and cited as a "safety consideration," sparked immediate criticism from political figures. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the original policy as "concerning," noting that spectators would be subjected to heat for longer periods than players. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow went further, characterising the ban as a "pure money grab," while emphasising the need to ensure fans are not deterred from hydrating due to potential high costs for water inside venues.
FIFA stated it works closely with host city committees on heat mitigation, including misting stations, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents around the stadium footprint. However, it remains unclear if dedicated drinking water stations will be installed inside stadiums for refilling bottles or how much venues will charge fans for water purchases. The lack of clarity extends to the tournament’s third host nation, with no confirmation yet on how the new water bottle policy will apply to matches played in Mexico.
The 2026 World Cup final is scheduled for 19 July at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The event will feature a half-time show curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, headlined by Madonna, Shakira, and BTS, marking the first half-time show in a football World Cup final. The performance aims to support FIFA’s Global Citizen Education Fund, targeting $100 million for children worldwide.
