FIFA adjusts water bottle policy for 2026 World Cup after backlash

Lead

FIFA has amended its stadium policy for the 2026 World Cup, permitting fans to bring disposable water bottles into matches in the United States and Canada, following widespread criticism of an earlier ban on reusable bottles. The decision comes amid concerns over extreme heat and fan hydration.

Coverage comparison

Initial reports from Al Jazeera and Africa News detailed FIFA's ban on reusable water bottles, citing safety concerns. Africa News highlighted criticism from fans and host city officials, while Al Jazeera noted that other items like cups, jars, and cans were also banned. Later reports, including an updated Al Jazeera piece, revealed that FIFA reversed its policy after backlash, allowing disposable bottles.

The reversal was confirmed by FIFA in a statement, which said fans will be permitted to bring one soft, plastic, 20-ounce, factory-sealed disposable water bottle into any match in the USA and Canada. Hard-sided reusable bottles remain prohibited for safety and security reasons.

Key claims

• Original ban: FIFA banned reusable water bottles from stadiums, updating its code of conduct to prohibit them, citing safety concerns. This was reported by multiple outlets.
• Previous allowance: FIFA had previously allowed empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles up to 1 liter, as reported by Al Jazeera and Africa News.
• Other banned items: Cups, jars, and cans are also banned to prevent injury if thrown, according to Al Jazeera.
• Hydration measures: FIFA stated that hydration stations and other measures, such as cooling areas, would be available in stadiums, as reported by both Al Jazeera and Africa News.
• Heat concerns: Climate researchers have warned about extreme summer heat in North America, as noted by Africa News.
• Backlash and reversal: Criticism from fans and officials, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, preceded FIFA's policy change, according to Al Jazeera.
• Tournament details: The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, as reported by Africa News.

Perspectives

FIFA's stance: FIFA maintains that the ban is based on safety considerations to prevent injury from thrown objects, and that hydration stations and other measures will be available. The updated policy allows disposable bottles while keeping a ban on hard-sided reusable ones.

Critics' concerns: Fans and host city officials, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, expressed concern that the ban could lead to limited and more expensive hydration options, especially in extreme heat. Mamdani welcomed the reversal, saying "no one should have to fear being priced out of being hydrated."

Environmental and heat experts: Climate researchers and sports scientists have warned about rising heat risks, and the ban initially raised questions about fan comfort and access to water during matches played in high summer temperatures.

Timeline of events: FIFA's initial policy allowed reusable bottles, but a change took effect from Tuesday, banning them. After backlash, FIFA issued what it called a "clarification" on Thursday, allowing disposable bottles. The updated policy did not mention Mexico stadiums.

This article was compiled from reports by Al Jazeera and Africa News.