World Cup 2026: FIFA bans water bottles in stadiums despite the risk of heatwaves
For this edition of the World Cup, FIFA will ban the introduction into stadiums of reusable water bottles by fans. A measure that may cause talk when high temperatures are expected during certain meetings.
Philemon MBALE · Author profile ·
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A new decision criticized. Just a few days before the start of the 2026 World Cup (11 June - 19 July), FIFA is stirring up controversy by tightening its stadium rules. According to the updated "code of conduct" revealed by The Athletic magazine, fans will no longer be allowed to bring reusable water bottles into stadiums. A decision that is highly challenging as extreme heat waves and stifling humidity are feared at most of the 16 sites in North America that will host encounters.
Questioned by the AFP, the international authority justifies this radical measure by security imperatives, aiming at "preventing risks and injuries for players and spectators". While empty plastic bottles, intended to be filled at fountains, were previously tolerated, this derogation is now abolished. Spectators will be forced to buy their water directly inside the stadium, an obligation that worries when climatologists estimate that a quarter of the tournament games will take place under stifling temperatures.
In an attempt to appease the critics, FIFA has promised a strict control of water prices sold on site so that they align with the usual prices of the concerned stadiums. In addition, several heat control devices (misters, fans, cooling tents and hydration zones) will be deployed by the local committees outside the enclosures to protect the public before they enter the galleries. But not sure that this is enough to calm the supporters who see in this measure a way for the authority to generate additional revenue.