FIFA has announced a revision to its World Cup stadium policy, confirming that fans will now be allowed to bring one disposable plastic water bottle into match venues following public criticism of an earlier restriction.

According to World Cup chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi, supporters attending matches in the United States, Canada, and Mexico will be permitted to carry a single soft plastic, factory-sealed 20-ounce (590ml) water bottle into stadiums.

The clarification comes just days after FIFA initially stated that refillable water bottles would be prohibited, a decision that sparked widespread concern among fans who feared limited access to drinking water inside venues.

FIFA described the update as a “clarification” of its earlier policy, which had raised concerns that spectators might be forced to purchase bottled water inside stadiums.

The governing body defended its position on safety grounds, saying the restrictions are intended to prevent risks and injuries to players and attendees. It added that many host venues already prohibit outside bottles for security reasons, and the same standard is being applied across World Cup stadiums.

Schirgi also clarified that hard-sided reusable bottles will remain banned, citing security concerns. He illustrated examples of acceptable and non-acceptable containers during a video message shared on FIFA’s official X account.

The decision comes amid growing concerns about extreme heat conditions expected during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

A report by the World Weather Attribution group has warned that a significant number of matches could take place under conditions of severe heat stress, measured using the Wet Bulb Global Temperature index.

At the FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States last year, similar restrictions were in place, and fans also reported discomfort due to high temperatures inside stadiums.

FIFA has stated that cooling measures such as misting stations, fans, hydration points, and cooling tents will be available within stadium areas to help spectators cope with the heat.

However, bottled water sold inside venues is expected to remain at standard event pricing levels across stadiums hosting the tournament.