FIFA stops fans from bringing refillable water bottles to World Cup venues

FIFA has stopped fans from bringing refillable water bottles into World Cup venues. This last-minute decision means that thirsty fans will have to buy bottled water, according to a report from The Athletic on Wednesday.

Just last month, FIFA’s official stadium rules allowed fans to bring in empty, clear, reusable plastic bottles that hold up to 1 litre. But on Wednesday, The Athletic reported that those rules have changed to clearly ban refillable bottles.

“Reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium,” says the updated stadium rules.

A FIFA spokesperson told AFP that the rule change was made for safety reasons. They pointed out that some World Cup venues already do not allow refillable water bottles.

“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff,” the spokesperson said.

“FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees. Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums.”

The spokesperson added that misting stations, fans, hydration stations, and cooling tents will be set up in “the stadium footprint.” Bottled water will also be sold inside the venue at prices similar to other events held at each stadium.

This new rule comes even as experts warn that fans might be at risk from extreme heat during the World Cup. The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

A report from the World Weather Attribution research group last month estimated that 26 out of 104 games during the World Cup may be played in conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) goes above 26 degrees.

WBGT is a measure of heat stress on the human body that looks at temperature, humidity, wind, and sunlight.

Last year, during the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, fans also faced high temperatures and were not allowed to bring water bottles into the venues.