FIFA updates stadium code: Reusable plastic water bottles banned a week before WC kickoff
New Delhi, June 4
Just a week before the start of the World Cup, which will be held from June 11 to July 19 at locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico, FIFA has updated its stadium policy, banning the use of reusable plastic water bottles inside the stadium.
The global governing body also said other types of bottles are also not permitted due to the risk of causing injury when thrown.
Last month, FIFA in its official Stadium Code of Conduct mentioned that, "For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 liter in) capacity, may be brought into the stadium."
Now according to the updated Stadium Code of Conduct, which was updated on June 2, FIFA said, "reusable water bottles may not be brought into the Stadium."
As per the clause 3.1.11 of the official Stadium Code of Conduct, "bottles, cups, jars, cans or any other form of closed or capped receptacle that may be thrown or cause injury, as well as other objects made of glass or any other breakable material or especially hard packages or hard thermal boxes (for the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the Stadium)."
Clause 3.1.20 suggests, "With the exception of hand sanitizers, no larger than 100ml/3.38 oz., any liquids containing alcohol, including any alcoholic beverages, unless purchased and consumed within designated areas of the Stadium and in strict accordance with any additional alcohol consumption rules imposed by the Event Organisers."
3.1.21 adds, "any other liquids exceeding 100ml/3.38 oz. unless such liquids are purchased inside the Stadium, with the exception of (i) baby milk and sterilised water in containers (including in glass containers) not exceeding 1 litre/33.8 oz. per child, and (ii) liquids up to 500 millilitres/16.9 oz. that are required for medical reasons but only if presented with a medical certificate in English, French or Spanish and in the presence of the person for whom they are intended."
According to The Athletic, FIFA, in a statement on Thursday, said, "The organisation made the decision to "prohibit bottles 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.
The move has raised concerns among fans about coping with heat. Access to drinking water inside the stadiums is also a concern.
It added, "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."
— IANS
Reader Comments
This seems like an overreaction by FIFA. We've been to many sports events in the US where reusable bottles are allowed as long as they're empty. The logic of banning them because they can be thrown is weak—fans could just as easily throw their shoes or phones. It's inconvenient and environmentally unfriendly. 👎
FIFA should take a page from Indian stadiums during the IPL—we allow empty water bottles and have plenty of water stations. Fans are more than willing to cooperate if the rules make sense. This last-minute change only creates confusion and frustration. Especially for families with kids, carrying baby milk and medical liquids is a hassle. 🙄
FIFA's statement mentions heat mitigation like misting stations and cooling tents, which is good. But banning reusable bottles while allowing overpriced water inside seems contradictory. If safety is the real concern, why not implement a clear bag policy like many US venues do? This feels rushed and poorly communicated. 🗑️
As an Indian fan who loves the game, I find this policy very consumer-unfriendly. We're a cricket-loving nation, but we also follow football closely. FIFA should prioritize fan comfort over minor safety risks. If they can allow baby milk and medical liquids, surely they can accommodate reusable bottles with proper checks. 😤
I understand the safety angle, but this is too restrictive. At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, reusable bottles were allowed. Why the sudden change? Fans traveling from India and other countries will have to
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.