News Focus
- FIFA bans reusable water bottles from World Cup 2026 stadiums just days before kick-off on 11 June
- Leading heat experts warn the policy puts fans at serious risk of heat-related illness in extreme temperatures
- Fans must now purchase water inside venues despite temperatures expected to exceed dangerous levels at 14 of 16 host cities
Football’s world governing body has announced a sudden change to stadium rules one week before the tournament begins. Supporters will no longer be permitted to bring reusable water containers into any of the host venues.
Earlier guidance had allowed fans to carry empty, clear plastic bottles with a maximum capacity of one litre. However, officials have now prohibited all bottles, cups, jars and tins. FIFA states this measure will reduce the risk of supporters throwing objects and causing injuries.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from heat safety specialists. They argue that preventing fans from carrying personal water supplies could lead to dangerous dehydration. Scientists had already warned in May that safety measures for extreme temperatures were insufficient. Fourteen of the sixteen host cities are expected to experience dangerous heat levels during the competition.
Professor Ollie Jay, a heat and health specialist at the University of Sydney, expressed grave concern for spectator welfare. He noted that unlike professional athletes, fans include elderly supporters, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions. These groups are far less able to cope with high temperatures than fit footballers.
“The heat builds up as fans travel to the ground,” Jay explained. “Many will arrive at the stadium already lacking fluids.” He added that conditions inside the grounds could worsen the situation. Crowded seating areas, direct sunlight, high humidity and poor airflow all increase the risk of heat stress.
FIFA has confirmed that bottled water will be available for purchase inside stadiums at standard venue prices. Officials have also introduced a three-minute hydration break during each half of every match. Additionally, the organisation plans to provide misting stations, cooling tents and shaded areas around the stadiums.
However, supporters’ groups remain angry about the timing of the ban. The Free Lions, an England fans’ organisation, described the move as a “strange, late change” and suggested it was a money-making tactic. The group stated that FIFA had previously promised fans could bring their own bottles to ensure free water access.
Dr Theodore Keeping from Imperial College London stressed that fair access to water is essential protection against extreme heat. Andrew Simms of the New Weather Institute went further, calling the decision a “reckless rejection” of FIFA’s duty to protect supporters.