FIFA bans reusable water bottles at World Cup

FIFA has made a last-minute change to World Cup stadium rules, banning fans from bringing reusable water bottles into venues during the 2026 FIFA World Cup across North America.

According to The New York Times, FIFA’s official Stadium Code of Conduct previously included provisions allowing certain types of bottles to be brought into stadiums, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

“To avoid any doubt, empty, clear, reusable plastic bottles up to 1 liter could be brought into the stadium,” the FIFA guidelines had stated.

However, FIFA has now informed World Cup ticket holders that it has updated its Code of Conduct, notifying fans that reusable water bottles will no longer be permitted at FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums.

The updated code, revised on June 2, removed the previous guidance that allowed spectators to bring empty reusable plastic bottles into venues. It now explicitly states that reusable water bottles are prohibited.

Other types of bottles are also banned because they could cause injuries if thrown. The ban on reusable plastic bottles is expected to be controversial, as fans will no longer be able to refill empty bottles at water fountains or dispensers inside stadiums.

During last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, where players and supporters raised concerns about extreme heat, bottled water sold at FIFA venues cost between $4 and $6. While prices for the 2026 World Cup have not yet been announced, FIFA maintains a long-standing partnership with Coca-Cola, and its bottled water brand Dasani is expected to be available in World Cup stadiums.

Argentina are the reigning World Cup champions, having won the tournament in Qatar in 2022.

Photo: FIFA