FIFA has reversed its ban on fans bringing refillable water bottles into World Cup stadiums after strong criticism from supporter groups and political leaders. The new policy now allows fans to carry one soft, plastic, factory-sealed disposable water bottle of up to 20 ounces, or 590ml, into matches in the USA and Canada.
The change comes after FIFA first tightened its stadium rules for the tournament’s 16 venues across North America. Reusable bottles had initially been allowed under a transparent, 1-liter limit, before an updated document said, “for the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium.”
Safety rules remain in place
FIFA said the original restriction was meant to reduce the risk of thrown objects inside stadiums. In a statement Thursday, the governing body said the bottle ban was introduced “to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.”
It also said it remained focused on protecting everyone inside the venues. “FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff,” the organization said.
Even with the reversal, not every bottle will be allowed. FIFA said fans still cannot bring hard-sided, reusable water bottles because of safety and security concerns.
Backlash grew as heat concerns mounted
The policy shift came as many host cities across the U.S., Mexico and Canada were expected to face temperatures of 90 degrees and above during the tournament. That raised concerns that limiting water containers would make conditions harder for spectators already facing long periods in the heat.
Supporter groups quickly framed the ban as a commercial decision rather than a security measure. English fan group the Free Lions said the immediate reaction among supporters was that it looked like “the latest money grab.”
The criticism also reached political leaders. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani told The Athletic that the ban was “concerning” because spectators could be exposed to heat for longer than the players. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also called the decision “wrong” and said it was “about making money.”
Stadium sales add to scrutiny
The issue drew further attention because drinks sold at World Cup stadiums will come exclusively from longtime FIFA sponsor Coca-Cola when the tournament starts. That includes water, sodas and juices sold inside the venues.
The reversal now eases one of the most visible points of frustration for fans ahead of the tournament’s opening matches. But FIFA’s revised rules still keep limits in place, and the organization continues to frame the policy around security, crowd safety and control inside packed stadiums.
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