FIFA Bans Reusable Water Bottles at World Cup 2026 Stadiums

Kathmandu. Spectators participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026 will not be allowed to carry reusable water bottles inside the stadium. FIFA has made a last-minute change to the stadium's code of conduct, imposing such a ban citing security reasons.

Until last month, FIFA had allowed carrying empty, transparent, and reusable plastic bottles up to 1 liter inside the stadium. However, FIFA stated on Thursday that the revised code of conduct, effective from Tuesday, has completely banned carrying such bottles.

The ban on other items such as bottles, cups, jars, and cans has also been imposed, considering the risk of injury from projectiles that could be targeted at players or spectators.

In a statement to the Reuters news agency, FIFA said, 'FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff. FIFA has decided to ban bottles to prevent risks and injuries to players and spectators.'

The statement mentions that some stadiums hosting the World Cup already had a ban on carrying outside bottles for security reasons, and FIFA has now applied the same rule to all stadiums where the competition will be held.

This move by FIFA has raised concerns among fans attending the matches about how to cope with the heat. The temperature in some host cities of the World Cup is estimated to reach 26 to 28 degrees Celsius.

Spectators are concerned about the accessibility of drinking water inside the stadium in such conditions. However, FIFA has clarified that necessary measures such as 'hydration stations' will be implemented within the stadium premises to protect spectators from heat and thirst.

To facilitate the mission, FIFA has stated that it is working in collaboration with the committee of each host city and local authorities. FIFA has announced that facilities such as misting areas, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents will be provided around the stadium.

In addition, FIFA has clarified that the price of water bottles available inside the stadium during the World Cup 2026 will remain the same as in other regular events.

This World Cup, which will feature 48 teams and be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will run from June 11 to July 19.