The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) announced today, Thursday, that it has banned bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums during World Cup matches for security reasons, following an emergency amendment to the Stadium Code of Conduct.

FIFA, which had previously allowed transparent reusable plastic bottles, stated that the updated rules now completely prohibit them.

The decision also extends to banning other items such as bottles, cups, jars, and cans, in order to avoid the risk of injury if they are thrown inside the stands.

In a statement to Reuters, FIFA said: “FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff, and this decision to ban bottles was made to reduce risks and potential injuries.

He added: “External bottles are already prohibited in a number of these stadiums for safety reasons, and we are working to extend this measure to all tournament stadiums.”

On the other hand, the decision raised concerns among fans about dealing with high temperatures, which are expected to range in some stadiums between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius, along with questions about the ease of access to drinking water inside the stadiums.

FIFA confirmed that it is taking measures to reduce the impact of heat, noting that it is coordinating with host city committees and local authorities to provide solutions including water mist stations, fans, cooling tents, hydration points, and other means in the vicinity of stadiums.

The statement said: “Inside the stadium perimeter, the prices of water bottles during the 2026 World Cup will remain consistent with the prices approved for other events hosted at these stadiums.”

Countdown until World Cup 2026

The 2026 World Cup will take place with the participation of 48 national teams from June 11 to July 19, jointly organized by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with 104 matches played, an increase from 64 matches in previous editions, following the introduction of an additional knockout round.