Key facts
- FIFA will allow sealed disposable plastic water bottles into World Cup stadiums.
- The decision reverses a previous ban on reusable bottles.
- The policy change applies to stadiums in the US and Canada.
FIFA is preparing for the 2026 World Cup and has reversed a ban on sealed disposable plastic water bottles following significant fan backlash. The decision means fans will be permitted to bring these bottles into stadiums across the United States and Canada. This change comes after New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani raised concerns about reports of a ban on water bottles, demanding answers from FIFA. The initial ban on reusable bottles had drawn criticism regarding fan hydration and accessibility during matches.