FIFA changes its mind on most controversial World Cup decision after fans speak out
Fans attending World Cup 2026 matches in the United States and Canada have faced another change in stadium rules. Earlier this week, FIFA announced a ban on bringing empty water bottles into the 16 stadiums hosting the games. This reversal caused concern because it could have made it harder for fans to stay safe and hydrated in what promises to be one of the toughest World Cups yet.
After days of feedback from fans and experts, FIFA reversed their decision. While they said the original ban was for security reasons, many thought it was more about business interests. Adam Crafton from The Athletic shared that FIFA’s new update means fans can now bring sealed water bottles up to 590ml into stadiums in the U.S. and Canada. However, this rule doesn’t yet apply to matches in Mexico.
Before this change, fans could only buy drinks inside the stadium because FIFA earns most of the money from concessions. Their soft drink partner, Coca-Cola, sells its sodas and bottled water, Dasani, at the venues. FIFA’s World Cup 2026 COO, Heimo Schirgi, explained the new water bottle policy in a video, saying it was just to clarify the rules, even though it’s clearly a change.
So far, the bottle ban still applies at Mexico’s stadiums, including Estadio BBVA, Estadio Akron, and Estadio Azteca—the site of the tournament’s first match on Thursday. In the U.S., fans can now bring in full, factory-sealed bottles instead of empty ones.
This World Cup will feature a record 104 matches. Mexico will host 13 games across Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Mexico City, while Canada will hold 13 matches in Toronto and Vancouver. The rest, including the final on July 19, will be played at venues across the United States.