LA World Cup 2026 branding pictured through the unveiling of the brand new check soccer pitch in anticipation of Nations League play and 2026 World Cup at SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California, USA, March 13, 2025. — Reuters
LOS ANGELES: Fifa mentioned Friday it’s going to permit followers to carry one “soft, plastic” disposable water bottle into World Cup venues after its ban on refillable bottles sparked an outcry.
“All fans will be permitted to bring in one, soft, plastic 20 ounces (590ml), factory sealed disposable water bottle into any Fifa World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada,” World Cup chief working officer Heimo Schirgi, mentioned in a video posted on Fifa’s X account.
The announcement, which Fifa known as a “clarification” of its water bottle coverage, got here two days after Fifa mentioned that refillable water bottles would not be allowed.
That was a change to their official stadium code of conduct that might drive thirsty supporters to pay for bottled water.
Fifa justified the transfer on security grounds, “to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.
“Exterior bottles are already prohibited at a number of of those venues for security issues, and Fifa is making use of this consideration throughout its match stadiums,” Fifa said in a statement to AFP.
On Friday, Fifa said that those concerns remain valid.
Schirgi said that “followers is not going to be permitted to herald arduous sided, reusable water bottles because of security and safety causes,” showing examples of bottles that will and won’t be allowed.
Forecasters have warned that fans could face health risks from extreme heat at open-air venues during the World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A report published by the World Weather Attribution research group last month estimated that 26 of 104 games at the World Cup are likely to be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26 degrees.
WBGT is a measure of heat stress on the human body which combines temperature, humidity, wind and sunlight.
At last year’s Fifa Club World Cup in the United States, where fans complained of searing temperatures, supporters were also barred from bringing water bottles into venues.
Fifa has noted that misting stations, fans, hydration stations and cooling tents would be available in “the stadium footprint”.
Bottled water inside the venue will be sold at prices which “stay in step with different occasions held at every stadium,” Fifa says.
