New Delhi: FIFA has rolled back its earlier decision prohibiting World Cup fans from carrying refillable water bottles into the 16 venues of the 2026 tournament across North America. This reversal comes after widespread criticism from supporters’ associations and prominent political leaders. World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi clarified through social media that spectators will now be allowed to bring sealed disposable water bottles, though hard-sided resealable containers will continue to be restricted.

Heimo Schirgi stated, “Each spectator can bring one 20-ounce (560ml) soft, disposable, factory-sealed water bottle into the stadium. However, hard-sided resealable water containers remain prohibited as they may present safety and security concerns.”

Initially, FIFA’s guidelines had permitted fans to carry a transparent, reusable bottle with a capacity of up to 1 litre (33.8 ounces). However, the global football body later revised this policy and informed ticket holders that “reusable water bottles are no longer permitted at FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums.”

The decision triggered strong reactions from an English fan group, which criticised FIFA for backtracking on its earlier assurances that spectators could carry empty plastic bottles to refill with freely available water at the venues — a crucial provision considering the expected high temperatures during the matches.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring 48 teams, is scheduled to commence on June 11 across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The opening fixture will see Mexico taking on South Africa at Estadio Banorte. The group stage matches will run from June 11 to June 27, followed by the Round of 32 starting June 28.

The Round of 16 will begin on July 4, the Quarterfinals on July 9, while the Semifinals are slated for July 14 and 15. The grand finale of the World Cup will take place on July 19.