TRIBUNNEWS.COM - FIFA has officially announced a revision to its policy on bringing water bottles into stadiums during the 2026 World Cup.
Earlier, FIFA had issued a strict ban preventing spectators from bringing any type of bottle, including reusable drinking bottles, just days before the start of the 2026 World Cup.
This decision quickly drew widespread criticism from fans and health advocates alike.
The rule sparked debate as many argued that it could pose health risks for spectators attending matches in hot weather conditions during the 2026 World Cup.
Eventually, FIFA decided to ease the regulation on water bottles for the upcoming World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
In an official statement quoted by the BBC, FIFA clarified that the ban did not apply to all types of water bottles.
Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer of the 2026 World Cup, confirmed that fans will still be allowed to bring a single factory-sealed disposable plastic water bottle into the stadium.
"Each spectator may bring one disposable soft plastic water bottle of up to 20 ounces (560 ml) that remains factory-sealed into the stadium," said Heimo Schirgi.
However, FIFA maintained its ban on hard, refillable bottles for security reasons.
"What is not allowed are hard-walled, resealable containers as they may pose safety and security risks," Schirgi added.
According to the official stadium code of conduct for the 2026 World Cup, supporters were initially permitted to carry transparent, reusable plastic bottles with a maximum capacity of one litre.
The official stadium guide stated:
"To avoid confusion, empty, transparent, and reusable plastic bottles with a capacity of up to one litre are allowed inside the stadium."
However, about a week before the 2026 World Cup kick-off, FIFA unexpectedly amended the existing rule.
FIFA explained that the change was aimed at reducing the risk of injuries caused by objects being thrown from the stands onto the pitch or towards other spectators.
Now, fans attending matches in person will be permitted to bring one sealed disposable plastic water bottle.
Meanwhile, hard refillable bottles will continue to be prohibited throughout the 2026 World Cup.
As a solution, FIFA assured that spectators' access to drinking water will be adequately provided during the matches.
Fans will be able to purchase water inside the stadium areas, and FIFA promised that prices will remain consistent with standard local rates, with no additional charges imposed.
Aside from the relaxed water bottle policy, the 2026 World Cup is one of the most anticipated tournaments in history.
The event will introduce several new elements, including an expanded lineup of participants — increasing from 32 to 48 teams.
Football analyst Adrian from Spietalg Indonesia noted that the new format essentially extends the knockout phase but still adds excitement to the competition.
"It’s basically just delaying the climax," Adrian commented in the Tribunnews podcast titled "SUPER TAKTIK: The Power Map of the 2026 World Cup and Indonesia’s Dream."
Nevertheless, he added that the inclusion of more teams will bring a fresh atmosphere to the global tournament.
Among them are nations returning after long absences and those making their debut appearances at the World Cup.
"Many countries will play for the first time or are returning after a very long break," he concluded.
(Tribunnews.com/Isnaini)
