CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) — FIFA late changes policy and suspends players world cup Fans are prohibited from bringing refillable water bottles into the 16 stadiums across North America where the tournament is being held, including stadiums with limited or no sun protection.
of “Stadium Code of Conduct” The update was criticized on Thursday by a British fan group, which claimed FIFA had ensured players carried empty plastic bottles to fill up with freely available water at tournaments. heat and abnormal weather expected to be a factor.
“Understandably, the immediate thought of supporters is that this is just the latest money grab.” The Free Lions fan group said: In a statement.
Water, soda, and juice are available for sale. world cup stadium When the tournament begins next Thursday, it will be exclusively supplied by long-time FIFA sponsor Coca-Cola.
FIFA stadium rules stated that fans could bring in clear, reusable bottles up to 1 liter (33.8 ounces) in size. capacity.
The latest document, dated Tuesday, states: “For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles are not permitted in the stadium.”
“The availability of free water in stadiums has been a key element in all our discussions and we have been assured by FIFA that this will be the case,” England’s fans’ body said.
The World Football Association said in a statement on Thursday that the decision to ban bottles that could be thrown was “to prevent danger or injury to players and participants.”
“FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff.”
FIFA said the policy would apply to all stadiums, as some of its 16 stadiums already prohibit fans from bringing in water bottles.
With temperatures expected to exceed 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit) in many cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada where the 104 matches will be held, FIFA said “heat mitigation” for fans approaching stadiums would include “misting stations, electric fans, hydration stations, cooling tents, etc.”
“On stadium grounds, 2026 FIFA World Cup water bottle prices will remain in line with other events held at each stadium,” the soccer body said.
FIFA has taken the following measures in response to the expected heat in some outdoor stadiums: 3 minute drink break Midway through the first half of every game. Critics argue that changing all games to four quarters gives broadcasters more break time to sell advertising.
The Free Lions fan group said of the ban on water bottles: “This is a very strange and late change when we are trying to create a ‘drinks break’ for our players.”
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