FIFA has moved to ban fans from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums at the 2026 World Cup, triggering a backlash from supporter groups and public health experts who warn that rising heat could turn matches into a serious health risk.

The governing body’s original stadium code of conduct for 2026 allowed spectators to carry empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles of up to one liter. That clause has now been rewritten to state that reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium, closing off a common way for fans to refill at fountains or hydration points.

The shift comes as the expanded 48 team tournament prepares to unfold across the United States, Canada and Mexico, where many host cities have already endured record breaking heat waves. Climate scientists say large parts of North America are facing longer, hotter summers, while sports medicine specialists warn that conditions measured by the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature index can significantly increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke in crowded outdoor venues.

FIFA insists the policy is rooted in security. In a statement, officials said the prohibition is designed to reduce potential safety threats associated with hard containers and to align with existing rules at several host stadiums that already bar outside bottles. The organization has pledged extensive mitigation measures, including free or low cost hydration stations, shaded cooling zones, medical posts and misting systems inside arenas.

Critics argue that the ban shifts both cost and risk onto supporters. Without the option to refill their own bottles, fans may be forced to rely on concession stands, where prices at major tournaments have historically been high and queues long. Fan groups and some public health advocates say that in extreme heat, any barrier to rapid, affordable access to water can become dangerous, particularly for children, older spectators and those with underlying health conditions.

The controversy revives long running concerns about the balance between commercial interests, security protocols and fan welfare at global sporting events. Previous tournaments held in hot climates have seen disputes over restrictions on outside drinks and the affordability of water inside stadiums.

Organisers of the 2026 World Cup have promised upgraded facilities and a fan focused experience across the three host nations. The bottle ban ensures that, alongside on pitch drama, scrutiny will fall on whether those assurances withstand the realities of heat, crowd management and the basic need to stay hydrated.