FIFA Eases Water Bottle Ban for 2026 World Cup Matches in US and Canada

FIFA has adjusted its spectator entry policy for the 2026 World Cup, allowing fans to bring sealed disposable water bottles into stadiums after facing criticism over restrictions announced earlier this week. The update applies to matches in the United States and Canada and comes amid concerns about high temperatures expected during the tournament.

The decision means supporters will be permitted to carry one factory-sealed plastic bottle of up to 20 ounces (590ml) into venues. However, reusable hard-sided bottles will remain prohibited under the competition's stadium regulations.

The move follows a backlash from fan organisations and public officials who questioned the impact of the restrictions on spectators attending matches in warm-weather conditions. Several host cities are expected to experience temperatures above 32°C during parts of the tournament, which will feature 104 matches across North America.

FIFA revises its water bottle ban decision after fan concerns

The latest policy represents a shift from the governing body's earlier position. Previous World Cup regulations had allowed spectators to carry transparent refillable bottles, but updated stadium rules removed that option entirely before FIFA reconsidered the measure.

Supporters' group Free Lions criticised the original policy and suggested commercial interests were behind the restriction. The organisation said: "Naturally, the immediate thought from supporters is this is just the latest money grab."

Political leaders also voiced concerns. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the ban on refillable bottles was "concerning because the heat that we are talking about is not just the heat that the players are in, it is also the heat that spectators are going to be subjected to for arguably a longer period of time."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also opposed the policy, describing it as "wrong" and saying it was "about making money."

FIFA maintains safety rationale

Before announcing the revised policy, FIFA defended the restrictions as a safety measure designed to reduce risks inside stadiums.

"FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff," the governing body said in a statement.

While FIFA eases water bottle ban measures for spectators, the organisation has made clear that reusable hard-sided containers will remain prohibited during the 2026 World Cup.