FIFA has announced a revision to its stadium entry rules for the FIFA World Cup 2026, allowing spectators to bring one sealed disposable plastic water bottle into match venues in the United States and Canada.

The decision follows public backlash after the governing body initially banned refillable water bottles, a move that raised concerns about fan comfort and potential dehydration during matches.

In a statement, World Cup Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi confirmed that fans will now be permitted to enter stadiums with one “soft, plastic” factory-sealed water bottle of up to 20 ounces (590ml).

“All fans will be permitted to bring in one, soft, plastic 20 ounces (590ml), factory sealed disposable water bottle into any FIFA World Cup 2026 match in the USA and Canada,” he said in a video posted on FIFA’s official X account.

FIFA described the change as a clarification of its earlier policy, which had completely prohibited refillable bottles. That earlier decision sparked criticism, with concerns that fans would be forced to purchase bottled water inside stadiums.

The organisation defended its security-based approach, stating that restrictions were introduced to reduce safety risks to players and spectators. It added that similar rules already exist in several host venues and will be applied consistently across all tournament stadiums.

FIFA also maintained its position on reusable bottles, confirming that hard-sided containers will still not be allowed for security reasons.

Health experts and climate analysts have also warned that extreme heat could affect several matches during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Reports suggest that a significant number of fixtures may be played under conditions that pose heat stress risks to players and fans.

At previous events, including the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, supporters were also restricted from bringing in water bottles, prompting similar criticism.

To address heat concerns, FIFA says stadiums will be equipped with cooling measures such as misting stations, fans, hydration points, and shaded cooling areas within the stadium environment.

However, bottled water inside venues will still be sold at prices aligned with those of other major stadium events, according to FIFA.