FIFA is banning spectators at World Cup matches from bringing reusable water bottles into its stadiums, after initially saying it will allow them.
Just three weeks ago, FIFA updated its code of conduct policy for North American venues, stating that “empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, as much as (1 litre in) capability, could also be brought into the stadium,” Reuters reported, but backpedalled Thursday, saying they were now not allowed and that fans will now must purchase bottled water on site.
In a statement to NBC News on Thursday, a FIFA spokesperson said the choice was made as a security precaution.
“FIFA made the choice to ban bottles to stop risk and injury to players and attendees,” the statement said.
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“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of those venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums.”
There are 48 teams set to play within the World Cup starting this month in Mexico City, with matches also being hosted at 16 venues across North America, including in Toronto and Vancouver.
A soccer fan walks past BMO Field, Toronto’s FIFA World Cup venue, while construction continues because the countdown to the opening game hits two weeks, in Toronto, Friday, May 29, 2026.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young
Many are also in areas liable to high temperatures and humidity, equivalent to Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico, in addition to Los Angeles, Latest York and Atlanta, that could be dangerous for each players and spectators.
Team Canada will face Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) on June 12. The temperature on the time of the match is forecast to be 26 C, in accordance with the Weather Network. Vancouver has a milder climate, with average June temperatures hovering across the 20 C mark.
In its statement, FIFA said it was co-ordinating with local officials on a heat safety plan.
“FIFA works closely with each host city committee and native authorities on heat mitigation aspects for fans travelling to the stadium, which might include resources equivalent to misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more across the stadium footprint,” the statement said.
FIFA said water prices is not going to be higher than what the venues generally charge.
In line with its website, BMO Field, where six Toronto matches might be played, has on-site water fountains near sections 105, 106, 111, and 114, though spectators is not going to have the opportunity to refill their very own bottles with them. At BC Place in Vancouver, water stations can be found near sections 204, 211, 218, 225, 231, 238, 245, 252, 305 and 310.
The water ban comes amid fan complaints over the associated fee of attending the tournament. As of publication, tickets haven’t sold out.
After they went on general sale in January, they ranged from US$140 to $8,680, The Associated Press reported. Since then, some have been made available for less and others for significantly more — rising to a face price of $32,970 for the ultimate.
FIFA can make more cash on its resale marketplace, where it takes a 30 per cent commission from each sale. In April, the platform listed 4 tickets to the ultimate for slightly below $2.3 million each.
— with files from Reuters and Global News’ Adriana Fallico
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