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The Guardian World1 min read
Fans banned from taking water bottles into games
TL;DR
Fifa has banned fans from bringing reusable water bottles into World Cup stadiums due to safety concerns. This late policy change aims to reduce the risk of injury from thrown objects ahead of the tournament starting on June 11.
Key points
- Fifa bans reusable water bottles at World Cup stadiums
- Policy change made seven days before the tournament
- Aim is to reduce injury risk from thrown objects
- Fans can buy water inside the stadium
- Prices will not exceed usual venue rates
Fans will not be allowed to take reusable water bottles into World Cup stadiums due to safety concerns, Fifa said in a late policy change.
The official stadium code of conduct previously stated: "For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 litre in) capacity, may be brought into the stadium."
But seven days before the tournament kicks off on 11 June, bottles - along with cups, jars and cans - have been prohibited, with Fifa saying it will lower the risk of injury caused by fans throwing missiles.
"Fifa is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff," football's world governing body said in a statement.
Fans will be able to buy water in the stadium and Fifa has promised not to charge above their usual venue prices.
The U-turn follows warnings by scientists that Fifa's heat safety measures for the tournament are "inadequate", with temperatures at 14 of the 16 host venues set to exceed dangerous levels.
"Fifa works closely with each host city committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans travelling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium footprint," Fifa's 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 change in policy comes amid complaints that fans are being hit by "extortionate" ticket prices and inflated train fares.
Fans were also prevented from taking bottles into stadiums at the last World Cup in Qatar.
The Free Lions England fans' group called the move a "strange, late change".
In a statement posted on X, it added: "In all of our discussions, free water availability in stadiums was a key one and we were assured by Fifa that this would be the case and that fans will have the ability to bring their own water bottle.
"Naturally, the immediate thought from supporters is this is just the latest money-grab. For how hot the stadiums will be, many in open air, just let fans bring a bottle if they want to.
"We hope the water fountains in stadiums will still be free, hopefully you aren't charged in the queue!"
Q&A
Why did Fifa ban water bottles at World Cup stadiums?
Fifa banned water bottles to lower the risk of injury from fans throwing missiles during matches.
What items are prohibited from being brought into World Cup stadiums?
Fans are prohibited from bringing reusable water bottles, cups, jars, and cans into World Cup stadiums.
Will fans be able to buy water inside the stadiums?
Yes, fans will be able to purchase water inside the stadiums at regular venue prices.
