Reusable water bottles brought by fans will not be allowed in the stadiums for the World Cup which starts on June 11, FIFA said Wednesday, citing a security measure that will nevertheless require fans to buy water inside the stadium.

The "Stadium Code of Conduct" established by the international governing body specifies in point 3.1.11 that "to avoid any ambiguity, reusable water bottles are not permitted within the stadium grounds." This ban, revealed by The Athletic magazine, has been in effect since Tuesday, whereas empty plastic bottles, which could be refilled at water fountains, were previously allowed.

When questioned by AFP, FIFA indicated that it had "made the decision to ban bottles in order to prevent risks and injuries to players and spectators".

"Bottles from outside are already banned in several of these venues for security reasons, and FIFA is applying this measure to all stadiums in the tournament," a spokesperson explained.

The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, runs until July 19, and several of the 16 stadiums are located in areas of extreme summer heat, exacerbated by stifling humidity. While some venues are enclosed and air-conditioned, most are open-air.

In a recent report, climatologists indicated that "grueling heat" could affect a quarter of the matches of the 2026 World Cup, including the final in New Jersey.

During last year's Club World Cup, many matches took place in temperatures above 32°C, with the humidity making the heat even more difficult to bear.

To combat the heat on the pitch, FIFA imposed a cooling break in the middle of each half, and air-conditioned benches for team staff.

"FIFA is working closely with each host city organizing committee and local authorities on heat mitigation measures for fans travelling to the stadium (including) misting systems, fans, hydration points, cooling tents and other facilities around the perimeter of the stadium," the spokesperson for the governing body added.

FIFA also emphasizes that "within the stadium perimeter, the price of water bottles will remain consistent with that of other events held in each stadium."

AFP