FIFA allows sealed water bottles inside WC stadiums in US and Canada
New York, June 6
Fans attending the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches in the United States and Canada will be allowed to bring one factory-sealed disposable water bottle into stadiums, FIFA said on Friday, revising its earlier stance that had banned reusable bottles on safety grounds.
The governing body clarified that spectators may carry a soft plastic bottle of up to 20 ounces (590 ml) into venues. However, it reiterated that hard-sided containers and reusable bottles will not be permitted.
FIFA Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi said the restriction was introduced for safety and security reasons, noting that bottles are among several items that could pose a risk if thrown inside stadiums.
The clarification follows FIFA's recent update to its Stadium Code of Conduct, which reversed earlier guidance that had permitted empty, transparent reusable plastic bottles inside venues. The change sparked concerns among fans about access to hydration during matches, particularly at stadiums where temperatures are expected to exceed 25 degrees Celsius.
FIFA has said host cities will implement heat-mitigation measures around venues, including hydration stations, misting zones and cooling areas. It also added that water prices inside stadiums will remain in line with those charged at other events hosted at the same venues.
Earlier, FIFA made a last-minute reversal of its World Cup stadium policy, banning fans from bringing water bottles into venues across North America.
According to the New York Times, FIFA's official Stadium Code of Conduct included a clause which said: "For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 litre in) capacity, may be brought into the Stadium."
The World Cup kicks off on Thursday when Mexico host South Africa at the Azteca Stadium. Argentina are the reigning champion of the FIFA World Cup after winning the 2022 marquee tournament in Qatar.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Fair enough for safety reasons, but why ban hard-sided containers? Plastic bottles get crushed easily and could be sharp. What’s the logic? Also, will these sealed bottles cost an arm and a leg inside? ₹500 for water like in IPL matches? 😡
As someone who’s been to India matches in 40°C heat, I get the hydration concern. But FIFA always flip-flops! First they allowed empty reusable bottles, then banned them, now this. Just be transparent from the start. At least they're adding misting zones and cooling areas—good move.
Typical bureaucratic mess. 🥴 I live in Canada and our stadiums already have water fountains. Just let people refill! A sealed 590ml bottle in June heat won't last half the match. Hydration stations better be everywhere and free.
India could learn from this—our stadiums have zero heat mitigation. Last IPL season I saw fans fainting in Ahmedabad. FIFA at least acknowledges the issue with cooling zones. But banning reusable bottles is anti-environment—plastic waste galore! ♻️
Honestly, the ticket prices are insane already, and now they want us to buy overpriced water inside? Sealed bottles are a small win, but I’ll still bring my own. Hope the 'heat-mitigation measures' are actually visible and not just PR. 🤞
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