FIFA has implemented a new policy prohibiting fans from bringing refillable water bottles into World Cup venues, according to a report by The Athletic. This last-minute change means that supporters will have to purchase bottled water at the stadiums.

Updated Stadium Code of Conduct

Previously, FIFA's official stadium code of conduct allowed fans to bring empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles with a capacity of up to one liter. However, the guidelines have now been revised to explicitly ban these refillable bottles. The updated code states, "For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium."

Safety Concerns and Available Alternatives

A FIFA spokesperson explained that the decision to prohibit refillable bottles was made for safety reasons, noting that several World Cup venues had already restricted their use. The statement emphasized FIFA's commitment to the health and safety of all individuals involved in the tournament, including players, referees, and fans. To mitigate heat-related risks, the organization will provide misting stations, hydration stations, and cooling tents within the stadium footprint. Bottled water will be available for purchase at prices consistent with other events held at each venue.

This rule change comes amid concerns about the potential health risks posed by extreme heat during the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A report from the World Weather Attribution research group indicated that 26 out of 104 games could be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees, a measure of heat stress on the human body. Similar restrictions on water bottles were observed during last year's FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where fans reported experiencing high temperatures.