FIFA breaks silence on ‘injury’ and ‘safety considerations’ controversial World Cup rule change

With just days left for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, FIFA recently sanctioned a major, controversial stadium rule change. The outrageous cost for fans for this summer’s World Cup regarding match tickets, accommodation, and travel has been a huge talking point in the build-up to the tournament.

Now just days before, FIFA has taken another major step which might again put a hole in the fans’ pockets. According to a report by The Athletic, supporters will no longer be able to bring water bottles into venues in North America. This goes against FIFA’s own official Stadium Code of Conduct, which previously stated that 1L water bottles were allowed in the stadiums. “For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 liter in) capacity, may be brought into the Stadium.”

The Athletic notes that it has seen emails from FIFA that informed World Cup ticket holders about the updated code of conduct. Supporters have been informed that “reusable water bottles are no longer permitted” at the FIFA World Cup 202 stadiums. “For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium,” the new code of conduct reads.

Other types of bottles are also forbidden by FIFA, as they pose a risk of injury if thrown. As a result of the rule change, fans will be unable to refill their empty bottles at water fountains or dispensers, requiring them to buy new water bottles at a generally hiked up price.

FIFA’s official statement on the updated rule change

In an official statement to The Athletic, FIFA confirmed the decision to “prohibit bottles” has been made “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. 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. 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 official statement read.

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