FIFA Revises World Cup Bottle Ban: Soft Disposable Bottles Allowed

Fifa has rowed back on its controversial World Cup bottle ban, confirming fans will be allowed to bring sealed disposable water bottles into stadiums after a backlash over the original policy.

The governing body had sparked anger and confusion with a late change that outlawed all bottles – along with cups, jars and cans – on safety grounds. That sweeping restriction drew immediate criticism from supporters’ groups, who questioned why basic hydration options were being tightened at a tournament expected to be played in intense heat in several host cities.

Under pressure, Fifa has now narrowed the scope of the ban.

Only hard-sided reusable bottles are prohibited. Soft, plastic, disposable bottles – as long as they are factory-sealed – will be permitted at World Cup 2026 venues.

“Each spectator can bring with them one 20 ounce (560ml) soft, plastic disposable factory-sealed water bottle into the stadium,” said World Cup 2026 chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi, setting a clear limit on what fans can carry through the turnstiles.

The line has been drawn at sturdier containers.

“What is not allowed are hard-sided resealable water containers, which could pose a safety and security risk,” Schirgi added, underlining the security rationale that had prompted the original blanket ban.

The adjustment leaves Fifa trying to strike a delicate balance: keeping security teams satisfied while avoiding the sight of thousands of fans queuing for expensive drinks in the heat, with no option to bring their own basic water supply.