FIFA has stirred backlash among football supporters after abruptly reversing its earlier stance on stadium entry rules for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Despite previous confirmations that spectators could bring reusable water bottles into venues across North America, the governing body has now removed that allowance from its official code of conduct.

In a surprising policy turnaround, FIFA has amended its Stadium Code of Conduct to forbid fans from carrying reusable water bottles into matches. Just three weeks ago, the same regulations clearly stated that “For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 litre in) capacity, may be brought into the Stadium.” That clause has now been replaced by a stricter line reading: “For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium.”

According to reports by The Athletic, the sudden change was communicated to ticket holders via email, notifying them that the previous policy was revoked as of June 2. The move leaves fans unable to refill personal containers at stadium water fountains — a concern given that the tournament will take place during the peak of the North American summer. Critics have accused FIFA of putting profit before fan safety and comfort.

Responding to the criticism, FIFA defended its decision by citing safety risks as the main reason. In its official statement, the organisation explained that the prohibition was meant to “prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.” It also pointed out that “Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across all tournament stadiums.”

The governing body further stated that it has collaborated with host cities and local authorities to ensure supporters are protected from the heat, adding: “FIFA works closely with each Host City Committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans travelling to the stadium, which can include misting stations, cooling tents, fans, hydration stations, and more around the stadium area. Inside the stadium, pricing for bottled water during the FIFA World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at these venues.”

Fan organisations have strongly criticised the move, calling it poorly timed and unfair to supporters. A spokesperson from the Football Supporters’ Association told The Athletic: “Once again with this World Cup, it’s fans last, not fans first. The heat and humidity are serious concerns for fan welfare, and that should be FIFA’s top priority — not selling more bottled water at inflated prices.”

The Free Lions, the England fans’ embassy, also voiced their anger, questioning the transparency behind the decision. In a post on X, the group remarked: “What’s next? Sun cream banned and sold only inside stadiums? With all the focus on ‘drinks breaks’ for players, this late change makes little sense. In all our discussions, free water availability in stadiums was a key issue, and FIFA assured us that fans could bring their own bottles. Naturally, supporters see this as another money-grab. We just hope the stadium water fountains remain free — and that you’re not charged while waiting in line!”

Experts have also raised concerns about the impact of high temperatures during the tournament. Research by World Weather Attribution (WWA) indicates that around 26 of the 104 scheduled matches may take place when the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) of the host city exceeds 26°C. Health specialists have warned that restricting access to water could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses among thousands of travelling fans.

While players will be protected by mandatory three-minute hydration breaks per half and climate-controlled benches, ordinary supporters will have limited relief. Under the new policy, the only liquids permitted inside stadiums will be “baby milk and sterilised water in containers” or liquids required for verified medical reasons. As the countdown to the World Cup continues, FIFA faces mounting pressure to ensure that its rules do not compromise the safety and well-being of fans under the summer sun.