With the new stadium regulations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA is prohibiting the entry of reusable water bottles into stadiums in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The rule is part of the „Stadium Code of Conduct“ published on June 2nd and applies to all World Cup matches.
According to the regulations, visitors are not permitted to bring bottles, cans, glasses, or other sealed beverage containers into the stadium. In the list of prohibited items, FIFA explicitly clarifies that reusable water bottles are also not allowed.
Strict rules for drinks
Furthermore, the regulations generally limit the carriage of liquids to a maximum of 100 millilitres. Exceptions only apply to baby food and sterile water up to one litre per child, as well as medically necessary liquids up to 500 millilitres with appropriate medical proof. Drinks purchased within the stadium are exempt from these restrictions.
FIFA bases the stipulations on security requirements. Bottles and other closed containers are classified in the regulations as objects that could be thrown or cause injury.
Contradiction of sustainability goals
The decision is likely to spark discussion. While organisers and sports federations have increasingly focused on reusable and refill concepts in recent years, FIFA is completely banning the Bring-Your-Own reusable bottle policy for its 2026 World Cup. This means stadium visitors will have to buy drinks on-site, unless there is a medical exception.
The regulations apply to all World Cup stadiums during the FIFA World Cup 2026 and take precedence over the other stadium regulations of the venues.
Source: Stadium Code of Conduct
