LOS ANGELES: FIFA said on Friday that fans will be allowed to take one “soft, plastic” disposable bottle into World Cup venues, after a ban on refillable bottles sparked outrage.
“All fans are allowed to bring one soft, plastic, factory-sealed, 20 ounce (590 ml) disposable water bottle to each FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the US and Canada,” World Cup CEO Heimo Schirgi said in a video on FIFA’s X account.
The announcement, which FIFA called a “clarification” of its water bottle policy, came two days after FIFA said refillable water bottles would not be allowed.
That was a change to their official stadium code of conduct that could force thirsty fans to pay for bottled water.
FIFA justified the measure on safety grounds, ‘to prevent risks and injuries for players and visitors.
“Outdoor bottles are already banned at several of these venues for safety reasons, and FIFA is applying this consideration in all its tournament stadiums,” FIFA said in a statement. AFP.
On Friday, FIFA said these concerns were still valid.
Schirgi said that “fans should not bring reusable hard-sided water bottles for safety reasons,” and showed examples of bottles that are and are not allowed.
Forecasters have warned that fans could face health risks from extreme heat at outdoor venues during the World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A report published last month by the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of the 104 matches at the World Cup are likely to be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) is above 26 degrees.
WBGT is a measure of heat stress on the human body, combining temperature, humidity, wind and sunlight.
During last year’s Fifa Club World Cup in the United States, where fans complained about high temperatures, supporters were also banned from taking water bottles into venues.
FIFA noted that misting stations, fans, drink stations and cooling tents would be available throughout “the stadium footprint”.
Bottled water in the venue will be sold at prices that “remain in line with other events held at each stadium”, FIFA said.
