FIFA has banned spectators at World Cup matches from bringing reusable water bottles into its stadiums, after initially saying it would allow it.
Just three weeks ago, FIFA updated its code of conduct policy for North American stadiums, stating that “empty, clear, reusable plastic bottles, with a capacity of up to 1 litre, may be brought into the stadium,” Reuters reported, but backtracked on Thursday, saying they were. It is no longer allowed Fans will now have to purchase bottled water on site.
In a Statement to NBC News A FIFA spokesman said on Thursday that the decision was taken as a safety precaution.
The statement read: “FIFA has taken the decision to ban bottles to prevent risks and injuries to players and attendees.”
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“Outside bottles are already banned in many of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is implementing this consideration at tournament stadiums.”
Forty-eight teams are scheduled to take part in the World Cup finals starting this month in Mexico City, with matches also being hosted in 16 venues across North America, including Toronto and Vancouver.
A soccer fan walks past BMO Stadium, Toronto’s home stadium for the FIFA World Cup, as construction continues as a two-week countdown to the opening game begins, in Toronto, Friday, May 29, 2026.
The Canadian Press/Chris Young
Many are also located in areas prone to high temperatures and humidity, such as Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico, as well as Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta, which can be dangerous for players and spectators alike.
Team Canada will face Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium (BMO Stadium) on June 12. The temperature at the time of the match is expected to be 26 degrees Celsius, according to weather network. Vancouver has a milder climate, with average June temperatures around 20°C.
FIFA said in its statement that it is coordinating with local officials regarding the thermal safety plan.
“FIFA is working closely with each host city committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans traveling to the stadium, which could include resources such as misting stations, fans, humidification stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium space,” the statement said.
FIFA said that water prices will not be higher than what places generally charge.
According to its website, BMO Stadium, where six of Toronto’s games will be played, has water fountains on site near sections 105, 106, 111 and 114, although spectators will not be able to refill their bottles with them. At BC Place in Vancouver, water stations are available near sections 204, 211, 218, 225, 231, 238, 245, 252, 305 and 310.
The water ban comes amid complaints from fans about the cost of attending the tournament. As of publication date, tickets have not been sold.
When they went on public sale in January, their prices ranged from $140 to $8,680, the Associated Press reported. Since then, some have become available at a lower price and others at a much higher price, with the nominal price rising to $32,970 for the final.
FIFA is able to make more money from its resale market, where it takes a 30 percent commission from each sale. In April, the platform listed four tickets to the final for just under $2.3 million each.
– With files from Adriana Valleco of Reuters and Global News
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