• FIFA bans reusable water bottles at World Cup venues due to safety concerns.
• The decision follows warnings about extreme heat during matches.
• Hydration stations will be provided, but bottled water prices may increase.
• Fans express concerns over potential health risks amid the ban.
• The tournament will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

FIFA has announced a ban on reusable water bottles at the 2026 World Cup venues, citing safety concerns as the primary reason behind the last-minute change in its Stadium Code of Conduct. This updated policy explicitly prohibits fans from bringing these bottles, which were previously allowed under specified conditions, according to SCMP, Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Africa News.

The decision comes amid increasing warnings from climate researchers about the risk of extreme heat during the tournament, which will be held in the summer across North America. The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature index indicates that many matches may occur under potentially harmful heat conditions, with predicted temperatures ranging between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius (79 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit), as reported by Al Jazeera and Reuters.

To assist fans coping with the heat, FIFA has indicated that measures such as hydration stations, cooling areas, and misting systems will be established around the stadiums. However, critics argue that the decision may lead to higher costs for fans in terms of purchasing bottled water, which will be priced consistently with other events held at the venues, according to SCMP and Africa News.

FIFA's restrictions echo similar measures taken during previous tournaments where fan comfort amid high temperatures has been a contentious issue. Supporters have voiced concerns regarding their ability to stay hydrated during matches, particularly as these new regulations could limit their access to affordable drink options, as highlighted by Reuters and Africa News.