FIFA has reversed course on its decision to bar World Cup fans from bringing refillable water bottles into the tournament's 16 stadiums across North America, following fierce backlash from fan groups and leading politicians.
FIFA announced a new policy Friday in a post on social media, saying "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."
However, it added that "fans will not be permitted to bring in hard sided, reusable water bottles due to safety and security reasons."
FIFA's stadium rules had originally stated that fans could bring in a transparent, reusable bottle up to 1 liter, or 33.8-ounce capacity. But an update to the document dated Tuesday stated that "for the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium."
In a statement Thursday, the world soccer body said the decision to prohibit bottles -- which could be thrown -- was "to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees."
"FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff," it said.
With temperatures of 90 degrees and above expected in many of the U.S., Mexican and Canadian cities hosting the 104 games, FIFA's initial change of policy was roundly criticized.
"Naturally, the immediate thought from supporters is this is just the latest money grab," English fan group the Free Lions said in a statement.
Water, sodas and juices sold at World Cup stadiums are supplied exclusively by longtime FIFA sponsor Coca-Cola when the tournament starts Thursday.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani told The Athletic the ban on refillable water bottles was "concerning because the heat that we are talking about is not just the heat that the players are in, it is also the heat that spectators are going to be subjected to for arguably a longer period of time."
United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the decision was "wrong" and was "about making money."
