World football governing body FIFA has reversed a controversial decision that would have prevented fans from bringing plastic water bottles into stadiums during the 2026 World Cup, following mounting criticism and increasing concern over extreme summer temperatures expected during the tournament.
The decision marks a significant climbdown by FIFA after supporters and climate observers raised concerns about fan welfare, particularly with several matches set to be played in cities known for intense heat and humidity during the summer months.
FIFA confirmed that spectators attending matches in the United States and Canada will now be allowed to carry one sealed plastic water bottle with a capacity of 590ml into stadiums.
The announcement was made by Heimo Sherji, executive director of special operations for the 2026 World Cup, in comments carried by French radio station RMC.
However, restrictions on hard plastic containers will remain in place because of security concerns inside stadium venues.
The reversal comes only days after FIFA amended its stadium code of conduct to prohibit reusable containers. Under the earlier policy, fans had been permitted to bring reusable bottles that could be refilled free of charge at water fountains inside stadiums.
That change sparked widespread backlash among supporters, many of whom argued that the ban would force spectators to purchase water from vendors inside stadiums rather than bring their own supplies.
Critics also questioned the timing of the restriction given the climatic conditions expected during the expanded tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Rising Concerns Over Extreme Heat
The controversy surrounding the water bottle ban has unfolded against a backdrop of increasing anxiety over the weather conditions anticipated during the 2026 World Cup.
Climate experts have warned that a considerable number of matches could take place under dangerously high temperatures, creating challenges not only for supporters in the stands but also for players on the pitch.
According to a recent climate report, nearly a quarter of the tournament’s matches may be affected by extreme heat waves.
The report also highlighted concerns surrounding the final, scheduled to take place on 19 July in New Jersey, where conditions could prove difficult despite the prestige of the occasion.
Among the cities attracting the greatest concern are Houston and Dallas, where summer temperatures frequently approach 40 degrees Celsius. Combined with elevated humidity levels, the conditions could become particularly severe during daytime fixtures.
Experts say humidity may worsen the impact of the heat even further, with oppressive conditions making it harder for both fans and players to cope.
Some specialists believe humidity can at times pose a greater threat than temperature readings alone, especially during prolonged exposure inside crowded stadiums.
Lessons From the Club World Cup
Concerns over the climate challenge intensified after the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States provided an early indication of the conditions likely to be experienced next year.
Several matches during that competition were played in temperatures exceeding 32 degrees Celsius, while heavy humidity amplified the sensation of heat for both players and supporters.
Those experiences appear to have added pressure on FIFA to reconsider policies that could affect hydration and fan comfort during the World Cup.
The governing body’s decision to restore access to sealed plastic water bottles is likely to be viewed as an attempt to ease those concerns and avoid further criticism ahead of football’s biggest tournament.
