FIFA World Cup 2026: Fans Can Bring Sealed Water Bottles to Matches

FIFA has updated its policy for the upcoming World Cup, allowing fans to bring one factory-sealed disposable water bottle into stadiums in the USA and Canada. This change addresses safety concerns while ensuring fans have access to hydration during matches, especially in warmer temperatures. The governing body has also introduced heat-mitigation measures at venues. The World Cup kicks off soon, with Argentina as the reigning champion. Read on for more details about this significant policy shift.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 11:51 IST

New Water Bottle Policy for FIFA World Cup 2026

Fans attending the FIFA World Cup matches in the USA and Canada will now be allowed to bring one factory-sealed disposable water bottle into the stadiums. This decision was announced by FIFA on Friday, reversing a previous ban on reusable bottles due to safety concerns.

According to FIFA, spectators can carry a soft plastic bottle with a maximum capacity of 20 ounces (590 ml) into the venues. However, hard-sided containers and reusable bottles remain prohibited. Each fan is permitted to bring one soft, plastic, factory-sealed water bottle to any FIFA World Cup 2026 match.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, emphasized that this restriction is in place for safety and security reasons, as bottles can be hazardous if thrown inside stadiums.

Response to Fan Feedback

This policy change comes after FIFA updated its Stadium Code of Conduct, which had previously allowed empty, transparent reusable plastic bottles. Fans expressed concerns regarding access to hydration during matches, especially in stadiums where temperatures could exceed 25 degrees Celsius.

To address these concerns, FIFA has announced that host cities will implement various heat-mitigation strategies around the venues. These include hydration stations, misting zones, and cooling areas. Additionally, the prices for water inside the stadiums will be consistent with those at other events held at the same locations.

Previous Policy Changes

FIFA had previously made a last-minute change to its World Cup stadium policy, initially banning fans from bringing any water bottles into venues across North America.

As reported by a major news outlet, FIFA's official Stadium Code of Conduct included a provision stating, "For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 litre in) capacity, may be brought into the Stadium."

The World Cup is set to commence on Thursday, with Mexico facing South Africa at the Azteca Stadium. Argentina, the reigning champions, won the last tournament held in Qatar in 2022.