FIFA has said it will allow fans to bring one soft plastic disposable water bottle into World Cup 2026 stadiums in the United States, Canada and Mexico, following criticism of an earlier restriction on refillable bottles.
The announcement came two days after the governing body initially said refillable bottles would not be permitted, a move that sparked concern among supporters and raised questions about access to drinking water inside venues during matches.
Under the updated policy, fans will be allowed to carry one soft plastic 20-ounce sealed bottle per person, while hard-sided and reusable containers remain prohibited for safety and security reasons.
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FIFA officials said the decision is intended to balance fan comfort with venue safety, noting that outside bottles are already restricted at several stadiums hosting the tournament.
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. ✅
As FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, explains, fans will not be permitted… pic.twitter.com/ePEHq9oalJ
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 5, 2026
Organisers also highlighted heat concerns during the tournament, with multiple matches expected to take place in extreme conditions, and said hydration stations, cooling areas and misting systems will be available for spectators.
Bottled water sold inside venues will be priced in line with other major sporting events at each stadium, according to FIFA.
FIFA said the clarification was issued to ensure consistency across all host venues and to avoid confusion among fans preparing to attend matches. The governing body reiterated that security policies vary by stadium but tournament-wide standards must be followed.
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Fan groups had criticised the earlier ban on refillable bottles, arguing it could increase costs for spectators and discourage environmentally friendly practices at a time when sustainability is a growing focus in global sports events.
Weeks before the policy change, discussions had already emerged online about water access, particularly for matches scheduled in daytime heat across several U.S. host cities expected to experience high temperatures during the summer tournament period.
Final guidance applies immediately across all venues now officially.