Fifa has revised its policy regarding water bottles for the upcoming World Cup in North America, now permitting fans to bring a single sealed, disposable 20-ounce (590ml) bottle into the stadiums.
Previously, ticket holders were allowed to carry an empty, clear, reusable bottle up to one liter, but a recent update indicated that reusable bottles would no longer be accepted.
This decision faced backlash from fan organizations and health experts, who expressed concerns about the effects of extreme heat on the well-being of attendees. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the ban as “wrong,” suggesting it was primarily motivated by profit.
Policy Change Amid Criticism
In response to the criticism, Fifa has partially reversed its stringent policy. A statement from the organization confirmed, “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.”
Heimo Schirgi, the chief operating officer for the World Cup 2026, clarified, “What is not allowed are hard-sided resealable water containers, which could pose a safety and security risk.”
Previous Allowances and Fan Sentiment
During last summer’s Club World Cup held in the United States, fans were allowed to take in empty bottles. Additionally, water was available for purchase inside the stadiums at prices ranging from $4 to $6 (approximately £3 to £4.50).
Initially, Fifa justified the ban by stating it aimed to “prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.” However, Starmer voiced his discontent on British radio station LBC, asserting, “It’s just wrong. I can’t help but think that it’s about making money.
“So you can’t bring plastic bottles in but you can buy a bottle of water when you get in the crowd? And then it’ll be expensive. The tickets themselves cost a fortune, far too expensive in my view. So the ticket sales are too high. And this is the wrong policy.”
Starmer’s remarks reflect the growing frustration among fans regarding rising costs associated with attending major sporting events, particularly in light of Fifa’s recent policy changes.
