https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
LOS ANGELES, June 6 (Alliance News): FIFA has revised its water bottle policy for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing spectators to bring one factory-sealed disposable plastic water bottle into stadiums after widespread criticism over an earlier ban on refillable bottles.
The announcement was made on Friday by Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer of the 2026 World Cup, in a video message posted by FIFA.
Under the updated policy, fans attending matches in the United States and Canada will be permitted to carry one soft plastic disposable bottle of up to 20 ounces (590 millilitres).
The clarification comes just days after FIFA stated that reusable water bottles would not be allowed inside tournament venues, a decision that drew criticism from supporters and health advocates who argued it could force fans to purchase bottled water inside stadiums.
FIFA defended the restrictions on reusable bottles, citing safety and security concerns. According to the governing body, hard-sided refillable containers could pose potential risks to players and spectators.
The organization noted that similar restrictions are already enforced at several stadiums hosting World Cup matches and are being applied consistently across tournament venues.
Despite easing its stance on disposable bottles, FIFA maintained that hard-sided reusable water bottles will remain prohibited. Schirgi demonstrated examples of permitted and prohibited containers in the announcement, emphasizing that security considerations remain a priority.
The issue has attracted particular attention amid growing concerns over extreme heat during the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico.
Recent studies have warned that several World Cup matches could be played under potentially dangerous heat conditions.
A report by the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of the tournament’s 104 matches may take place when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26 degrees Celsius, indicating elevated heat stress risks for players and spectators.
Concerns over fan safety were also raised during last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where spectators complained about extremely high temperatures while being restricted from bringing water bottles into venues.
FIFA said measures such as hydration stations, misting stations, cooling tents and fans will be available around stadium premises to help supporters cope with the heat.
The organization also stated that bottled water sold inside venues will be priced in line with rates charged during other events hosted at the respective stadiums.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest edition of the tournament to date, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across North America.
