FIFA has adjusted its earlier restriction on water bottles ahead of the 2026 World Cup, announcing that fans will now be allowed to enter stadiums with one “soft, plastic” disposable water bottle following criticism of its initial ban.
The clarification was issued on Friday by World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi in a video shared on FIFA’s official X account.
According to the update, spectators attending matches in the United States and Canada will be permitted to bring one factory-sealed, 20-ounce (590ml) soft plastic water bottle into stadiums.
“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,” Schirgi said.
The revision comes just days after FIFA announced a stricter policy banning refillable water bottles entirely, a move that triggered backlash from fans who argued it would force spectators to purchase expensive drinks inside stadiums.
FIFA had defended its initial decision, saying it was based on safety concerns.
“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” the governing body said in a statement.
The organisation maintained that the rule is aimed at preventing risks and ensuring safety for players, officials and spectators.
However, in its latest update, FIFA clarified that while soft disposable bottles are now permitted, hard-sided reusable bottles will still be banned across all venues for security reasons.
World Cup organisers said the adjustment was made to balance safety requirements with fan experience ahead of the global tournament.
