Despite temperatures expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius in the United States, Canada and Mexico during the World Cup, fans will not be allowed to bring empty water bottles into the stadiums.
Due to security concerns, football governing body FIFA has amended the relevant section of its guidelines, which now states: “For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium.”
According to media reports, ticket holders have already been informed about the changes.
The ban is likely to cause a lot of frustration among visitors, as fans will no longer be able to refill their empty bottles at a drinking fountain or water dispenser.
Previously, FIFA had announced that empty, transparent, and reusable plastic bottles with a capacity of up to one litre may be brought into the stadiums.
It’s still unclear how much water bottles will cost at the stadium. According to The Athletic news portal, venues charged between $4 and $6 for a bottle of water at last year’s Club World Cup.
Experts have repeatedly warned that the expected high temperatures could pose a risk to fans and players. FIFA has introduced three-minute hydration breaks in each half of games at the tournament.
The World Cup starts on June 11 and runs until July 19.
