FIFA’s Ban on Refillable Water Bottles Sparks Concerns Over Fans' Safety

Simone Baptiste | AFP

In a policy reversal, FIFA has banned refillable water bottles in World Cup venues, citing safety, despite concerns about extreme heat at open-air matches across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

FIFA has imposed a last-minute prohibition on refillable water bottles inside World Cup stadiums, a change to its stadium code of conduct that will require fans to purchase bottled water at the venue. The decision, confirmed on Wednesday, has altered previously stated guidelines, which allowed empty, transparent, reusable bottles up to one liter to be brought into stadiums. The updated code now explicitly states: 'For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium.'

A FIFA spokesperson indicated that the policy adjustment was made on safety grounds, pointing out that several World Cup venues already restrict outside bottles to prevent potential injury risks. 'FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees,' the spokesperson said in a statement. Additionally, FIFA noted that bottled water inside the venues would be sold at pricing consistent with other events held at the same stadiums. Fans will also have access to misting stations, hydration points, cooling tents, and other facilities aimed at mitigating heat stress.

Why did FIFA ban refillable water bottles at World Cup venues?

FIFA cited safety as the reason for banning refillable water bottles at World Cup venues, stating it aims to prevent injuries. The policy mirrors restrictions already in place at many hosting stadiums.

Rising Temperatures and the WBGT Threshold for Fans’ Heat Safety

This ban comes amid significant concerns about the conditions fans may face during the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With extreme heat projected for some matches, experts have signaled potential health risks. According to a report by the World Weather Attribution research group, 26 of the 104 scheduled matches may occur in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT), a recognized measure of human heat stress, surpasses 26 degrees Celsius. Fans attending matches in open-air venues during peak summer heat waves could be particularly vulnerable without adequate hydration options.

FIFA has faced similar criticism before. At last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, fans expressed frustration over heat issues as they were also prohibited from bringing refillable water bottles into venues. While FIFA argues that safety is paramount, the ban has added to the concerns of attendees preparing for the month-long event spanning three countries.

Implications for Cities Hosting the World Cup

FIFA’s decision to ban refillable water bottles has reignited the debate about how host cities balance event logistics, fan experience, and public safety. For metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Guadalajara , all set to host matches , the policy places added pressure on urban infrastructure and heat mitigation resources. Misting stations, cooling tents, and hydration points will have to accommodate not only large crowds but the prolonged duration of matches and associated festivities.

Local governments may need to collaborate with FIFA and stadium operators to ensure resources are equitably distributed and accessible. Managing an influx of visitors under potentially hazardous heat conditions also underscores the necessity of planning at the municipal level , from public transportation to healthcare preparedness. Ultimately, FIFA’s ruling tightens the spotlight on the balance between organizing large-scale events and prioritizing community well-being, an issue that resonates globally for cities hosting major tournaments.

Questions That Matter

What is FIFA's policy on water bottles at stadiums?

FIFA has banned refillable water bottles from being brought into World Cup stadiums, requiring fans to purchase bottled water at the venue. This decision was confirmed on a Wednesday and aims to prevent potential injury risks.

How many World Cup matches may exceed WBGT threshold?

According to the World Weather Attribution research group, 26 out of the 104 scheduled matches might take place in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees Celsius, posing health risks to fans.