FIFA to allow plastic water bottles at World Cup after backlash over ban

Football fans will be allowed to bring sealed disposable water bottles into World Cup stadiums in the US and Canada after criticism over a decision to ban reusable bottles.

Ticket holders had previously been permitted to bring an empty, transparent and reusable bottle up to one litre into grounds.

But then earlier this week, world football's governing body FIFA outright banned refillable plastic bottles, saying the decision was to "prevent risk and injury to players and attendees".

The controversial move was criticised by fan groups and scientific experts, who had already expressed concerns about the impact of extreme heat on spectators' welfare.

The Free Lions England fans' group called the initial decision a "strange, late change" and "just the latest money-grab", having been previously assured by FIFA that fans would have free access to water and be able to bring in their own bottle.

And Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer branded the measure "wrong", saying it was "about making money".

But FIFA has since partially backtracked on the ban, with a post on social media explaining fans will be allowed to bring "one soft, plastic, 20 ounces (590ml), factory sealed disposable water bottle" into matches in the US and Canada.

"What is not allowed are hard-sided resealable water containers, which could pose a safety and security risk," World Cup 2026 chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi added.

Fans were allowed to bring in empty bottles during last year's Club World Cup, also held in the US, with water also on sale at stadia for prices between £3 and £4.50.

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FIFA has introduced three-minute hydration breaks for players in each half as a welfare measure.

A study by US broadcaster National Public Radio this week found that more than a third of matches this tournament are at high risk for dangerously hot, humid conditions.

Temperatures in Miami, Houston, Dallas and Atlanta can average as high as 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Scotland will play Brazil in Miami.

Academics at World Weather Attribution (WWA) expect nine of the tournament's 104 matches to be played above 26 degrees Wet Bulb Globe Temperature - an index which considers how effectively the body can cool itself.

The World Cup starts on 11 June and ends on 19 July.

(c) Sky News 2026: FIFA to allow plastic water bottles at World Cup after backlash over ban