FIFA has relaxed its controversial World Cup water bottle policy. Fans can now bring one factory-sealed disposable plastic water bottle into stadiums during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decision came days after criticism of FIFA’s ban on reusable water bottles. Many supporters and health experts raised concerns about hydration during a summer tournament expected to feature extreme temperatures. In a video posted on FIFA’s official X account, World Cup chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi explained the updated rule. “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,” Schirgi said. FIFA described the announcement as a clarification. However, the move eases restrictions announced earlier this week. Safety Concerns Drive Policy Earlier this week, FIFA updated its stadium code of conduct and banned reusable water bottles. The organisation defended the move on security grounds. “Fifa made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees,” FIFA said. The governing body noted that many World Cup venues already enforce similar restrictions. 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. ✅As FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, explains, fans will not be permitted… pic.twitter.com/ePEHq9oalJ— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 5, 2026 “Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and Fifa is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” the statement added. Despite Friday’s change, FIFA continues to prohibit reusable containers. Schirgi said, “fans will not be permitted to bring in hard sided, reusable water bottles due to safety and security reasons.” He also displayed examples of permitted and prohibited bottles. Under the revised rules, fans may carry only one soft plastic disposable bottle that remains factory sealed upon entry. Heat Risks Remain in Focus The debate has intensified because experts continue to warn about extreme temperatures during the tournament. The United States, Canada and Mexico will host the 2026 World Cup. The competition will feature a record 48 teams and 104 matches. Last month, the World Weather Attribution research group released a report on tournament conditions. Researchers estimated that 26 matches could take place in conditions where the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature exceeds 26 degrees Celsius. The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, or WBGT, measures heat stress on the human body. It combines temperature, humidity, sunlight and wind into a single reading. Fans raised similar concerns during last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. Many complained about intense heat inside stadiums. Organisers also prohibited outside water bottles during that tournament. FIFA says it will provide hydration stations, cooling tents, misting stations and fans throughout venue areas. The organisation also says bottled water inside stadiums will remain priced similarly to other events held at each venue. As preparations continue for the largest World Cup in history, FIFA faces growing pressure to balance security requirements with fan comfort and safety.