FIFA has made a last-minute U-turn on its policy regarding water bottles at the 2026 World Cup, a move that has been widely condemned as dangerous and exploitative. The governing body initially stated that empty, reusable plastic bottles up to one litre could be brought into stadiums, but has now banned them entirely, citing safety concerns.
Health Risks in Extreme Heat
With temperatures expected to reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) or higher at over a quarter of the 104 matches, and some games facing even more extreme conditions, the ban poses significant health risks. Players will have hydration breaks, but fans are left to rely on purchasing water from official outlets, where a bottle typically costs around $6 (£4.50) in American sports venues.
FIFA's VIP Hypocrisy
While FIFA President Gianni Infantino and other dignitaries enjoy complimentary drinks in air-conditioned VIP sections, ordinary fans face soaring costs and potential dehydration. The Football Supporters' Association condemned the decision, stating: "Yet again with this World Cup, it is fans last and not fans first. The heat and humidity is a real concern for fans’ welfare - it should be that this is FIFA’s main focus and not the ability to sell more bottled water at inflated prices."
Safety or Profits?
FIFA claims the ban is for safety, to prevent bottles from being thrown. However, critics argue that the real motivation is profit, as FIFA's sponsor Coca-Cola supplies the water sold inside stadiums. Supporters have been advised to take precautions against the heat, but the ban prevents them from carrying their own water.
The decision has sparked outrage among fans, many of whom have already spent heavily on travel and tickets. The World Cup 2026, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is already facing logistical and ethical challenges, and this latest move adds to the controversy.
