Good news for football fans heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after widespread criticism, FIFA has softened its stance on water bottles, allowing supporters to bring sealed disposable bottles into stadiums amid growing concerns over extreme heat.

Football fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States and Canada have received some welcome news. According to reports monitored by cbinewstv, FIFA has revised its stadium policy and will now allow spectators to bring one factory-sealed disposable water bottle into match venues.

The decision comes just days after the world football governing body faced backlash for announcing that reusable water bottles would not be permitted inside World Cup stadiums.

In a video shared on FIFA’s X account, World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi confirmed the update, stating that fans will be allowed to carry one soft plastic, factory-sealed water bottle of up to 20 ounces (590ml) into any World Cup match in the USA and Canada.

FIFA described the move as a clarification of its existing policy, but it follows growing concerns that supporters could be forced to buy water inside stadiums, particularly during matches expected to be played in high temperatures.

The controversy began after FIFA introduced a rule banning refillable plastic bottles from stadiums, citing safety and security reasons. The organisation argued that similar restrictions already exist at several host venues and that a uniform policy was necessary across all World Cup stadiums.

Previously, fans could enter venues with empty transparent reusable bottles of up to one litre. However, an update issued on 2 June confirmed that reusable bottles would no longer be allowed.

While FIFA has now eased the restriction by permitting sealed disposable bottles, the ban on reusable containers remains in place. Schirgi reiterated that hard-sided reusable bottles would still be prohibited due to safety concerns.

The issue has attracted significant attention because of fears over extreme summer heat during the tournament. A recent study by the World Weather Attribution research group suggested that 26 of the tournament’s 104 matches could be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature exceeds 26°C , a level linked to considerable heat stress.

The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature measures the combined impact of heat, humidity, sunlight and wind on the body, making it a key indicator of potential health risks during outdoor sporting events.

Concerns over fan welfare are not new. During last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, supporters complained about intense temperatures and difficulties accessing water inside venues.

In response, FIFA says cooling measures will be available around stadiums, including hydration stations, misting zones, cooling tents and fans. The organisation also assured supporters that bottled water sold inside stadiums would be priced similarly to other events hosted at the same venues.

For many fans, the latest adjustment is seen as a practical compromise between stadium security requirements and the need to keep supporters safe and hydrated during one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

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