FIFA has changed its rules for fans attending the 2026 World Cup and will no longer allow reusable water bottles inside stadiums, citing safety concerns, news agency Reuters reported.The decision comes after FIFA had earlier said that empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles would be permitted at venues in the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, the updated Stadium Code of Conduct, which came into effect on Tuesday, now bans them.According to Reuters report, reusable bottles, along with other items such as cups, jars, cans and bottles, have been prohibited because they could pose a risk if thrown inside stadiums.“FIFA is committed to protecting ?the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and ?staff,” Reuters quoted FIFA as saying. “FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.”“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations and FIFA is applying this ?consideration across its tournament stadiums.”The move has raised concerns among supporters, especially with temperatures at some venues expected to be between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius. Questions have also been raised about access to drinking water inside stadiums.FIFA said host cities and local authorities are working on measures to help fans deal with the conditions.“FIFA works closely with each Host City Committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans traveling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around ?the stadium footprint,” the statement said.“Inside the stadium footprint, pricing for water bottles for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at each stadium.”The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. It will be the first edition featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, up from 64 games in previous tournaments, with an additional knockout round included in the format.
