FIFA has revised its stance on stadium entry rules for the 2026 World Cup following widespread criticism from supporter groups and senior political figures. The governing body had initially imposed a blanket ban on reusable water bottles for spectators, but has now introduced a modified policy allowing limited access under specific conditions.
In a statement posted on Friday via social media, FIFA confirmed that fans attending any match in the United States and Canada will be permitted to bring a single soft plastic, factory-sealed, single-use water bottle with a maximum capacity of 590 millilitres into stadiums.
The organisation further clarified that reusable water bottles made of hard plastic or metal will remain prohibited on safety grounds. FIFA stated that the measures are intended to ensure the safety and security of players, officials, spectators, volunteers and staff, and to reduce risks of injury or other incidents inside venues.
This update follows a series of rapid revisions to the tournament’s stadium regulations. An earlier version of the rulebook stated that spectators could enter venues with empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles of up to one litre in capacity. However, a subsequent revision issued on Tuesday removed that provision entirely, stating that reusable bottles would not be permitted inside stadiums.
The original restriction prompted significant backlash, particularly given weather forecasts indicating temperatures of around 32°C or higher in several host cities across the United States, Mexico and Canada during the tournament period. Critics argued that the policy would make it difficult for spectators to remain hydrated during extended exposure to heat.
Among those expressing concern was the English supporter organisation ‘The Free Lions’, which described the initial decision as appearing to be an additional revenue-generating measure. Political figures also criticised the move. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani told The Athletic that the ban was concerning, particularly in light of expected high temperatures affecting both players and spectators for prolonged periods.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also described the original policy as “wrong” and suggested it reflected a commercial motivation.
FIFA’s commercial arrangements at stadiums were also noted in relation to the debate. Beverage sales, including water, soft drinks and juice at World Cup venues, will be exclusively supplied by long-standing FIFA sponsor Coca-Cola.
FIFA stadium bottle policy overview
| Item | Initial policy | Revised policy |
|---|---|---|
| Reusable plastic bottles | Allowed (up to 1 litre, empty, transparent) | Prohibited |
| Hard plastic / metal bottles | Not specified / effectively restricted | Prohibited |
| Soft plastic bottles | Not permitted in initial revision | Allowed (max 590 ml, factory-sealed, single-use) |
| Beverage sales | Not specified | Exclusive supplier: Coca-Cola |
The revised regulation will apply to all 2026 World Cup stadiums across the United States and Canada as part of the updated entry conditions for spectators.