FIFA announced that spectators at the 2026 World Cup will no longer be allowed to bring personal water bottles into stadiums. Fans must purchase water on site, but the governing body pledged that water will be sold at the same price as previous events at each venue. The decision reverses an earlier promise of free bottle access, and no refunds are offered for discarded bottles.

The U‑turn follows warnings from climate scientists that heat safety measures are inadequate, with fourteen of the sixteen host cities projected to see temperatures above safe levels. FIFA said it works with local authorities on mitigation, citing misting stations, fans, hydration points and cooling tents inside the stadium footprint. Pricing for water will stay consistent with other events, and these steps aim to protect spectators.

English supporters’ group Free Lions called the policy a “strange, late change,” echoing broader fan anger over what they label extortionate ticket and train fares. The ban mirrors Qatar 2022, when bottles were also prohibited. While FIFA assures no price hikes, many fans argue free water fountains should remain, leaving the controversy unresolved. The debate may influence future stadium policies.