Heat experts say World Cup water bottle ban puts fans at risk

A significant story is unfolding on the international scene. Heat experts warn Fifa of bottle ban health riskImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, The 2022 World Cup attracted more than a million fans to QatarByFlora Snelson, Sport journalist and Katie Gornall, Sport correspondentPublished4 June 2026, 09:55 BSTUpdated 3 hours agoFifa has been warned it is putting fans' health at risk by introducing a bottle ban at this summer's World Cup. Fans will not be allowed to take reusable water bottles into World Cup stadiums due to safety concerns, Fifa said in a late policy change. The official stadium code of conduct previously stated: "For the avoidance of doubt, empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 litre in) capacity, may be brought into the stadium.

"But seven days before the tournament kicks off on 11 June, bottles - along with cups, jars and cans - have been prohibited, with Fifa saying it will lower the risk of injury caused by fans throwing missiles. "Fifa is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff," football's world governing body said in a statement. Fans will be able to buy water in the stadium and Fifa has promised not to charge above their usual venue prices.

The Details

But heat experts have criticised the U-turn, with one saying the ban "will clearly heighten the risk of heat-related health incidents". In May, scientists warned that Fifa's heat safety measures for the tournament are "inadequate", as temperatures at 14 of the 16 host venues are set to exceed dangerous levels. "Fifa works closely with each host city committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans travelling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium footprint," Fifa's statement said.

"Inside the stadium footprint, pricing for water bottles for the Fifa World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at each stadium. "The change in policy comes amid complaints that fans are being hit by "extortionate" ticket prices and inflated train fares. Fans were also prevented from taking bottles into stadiums at the last World Cup in Qatar.

The Free Lions England fans' group called the move a "strange, late change". In a statement posted on X, it added: "In all of our discussions, free water availability in stadiums was a key one and we were assured by Fifa that this would be the case and that fans will have the ability to bring their own water bottle. "Naturally, the immediate thought from supporters is this is just the latest money-grab.

For how hot the stadiums will be, many in open air, just let fans bring a bottle if they want to. "We hope the water fountains in stadiums will still be free, hopefully you aren't charged in the queue! "'A basic first defence against the extreme heat risks'Fifa have responded to heat safety concerns by introducing one three-minute hydration break in each half for every game at the tournament.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.