FIFA allows World Cup fans to bring one bottle of water into stadiums

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) announced yesterday, Friday, that fans at FIFA World Cup matches scheduled in the United States, Canada and Mexico will be allowed to bring one factory-sealed, single-use water bottle into stadiums, days after it decided to ban reusable bottles for security reasons.

The Federation explained that fans will be allowed to carry a plastic bottle with a capacity of (600 ml) inside the stadiums, reiterating that solid or reusable bottles will remain prohibited.

FIFA Chief Operating Officer Hemo Sherji said that this restriction is based on safety and security considerations, explaining that bottles are among several things that may pose a danger if thrown.

This clarification came after FIFA updated its code of conduct inside stadiums this week, reversing previous directives that allowed the entry of empty, reusable, transparent plastic bottles.

This step raised concerns among fans about maintaining hydration during matches, especially in stadiums where temperatures are expected to exceed 25 degrees Celsius.

FIFA confirmed that the host cities will provide measures to reduce the heat in the vicinity of the stadiums, including water distribution points, water spraying areas, and cooling tents, indicating that water prices inside the stadiums will remain in line with the prices approved in other events held in these stadiums.

The World Cup is scheduled to start next Thursday with a match between Mexico and South Africa at Azteca Stadium.