FIFA permits fans to bring disposable water bottle into World Cup stadiums after backlash
FIFA reversed its ban after criticism and now allows one soft, factory-sealed plastic bottle of up to 20 ounces per fan.
- On Friday, FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi announced fans may bring one soft, factory-sealed 590-millilitre disposable water bottle into stadiums in the United States and Canada.
- The policy change follows significant fan backlash and criticism from officials regarding FIFA's previous decision to ban all water bottles, which required attendees to purchase beverages on-site.
- Hard-Sided reusable bottles remain prohibited for "safety and security" reasons, Schirgi confirmed, maintaining restrictions despite the updated policy on disposable containers.
- FIFA had previously permitted transparent, reusable bottles up to 1 litre, but reversed the rule "for the avoidance of doubt," causing confusion among attendees before Friday's announcement.
- The tournament, featuring 48 teams, begins this month across 16 North American venues, requiring clear, consistent stadium policies to accommodate large crowds.
128 Articles
128 Articles
FIFA U-turns on water bottle policy in US, Canada stadiums after backlash
New York Mayor Mamdani was among those critical of FIFA’s decision to ban water bottles at World Cup stadiums.Published On 7 Jun 20267 Jun 2026FIFA has made changes to its stadium policy, allowing fans to bring disposable water bottles into match stadiums after a ban earlier this week drew backlash from supporters and tournament host city officials.FIFA’s initial policy permitted fans to carry empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles up to 1…
FIFA has announced that it will still allow supporters to bring their own water bottles to some stadiums during the World Cup, amending a rule that prohibits spectators from introducing water bottles into the 16 stadiums of the North American tournament, including some with limited shade or at all, reports AP.
The Fifa announced on Friday 5 June that it allowed spectators to bring a bottle of plastic water to the stadiums of the World 2026. A few days earlier, the case had decided in the opposite direction, citing safety reasons. - World Cup 2026: some plastic water bottles finally allowed in the stadiums by the Fifa (Sports).
FIFA previously announced that you cannot bring your own water bottles into stadiums.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 55% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
