FIFA lifts water bottle ban after widespread backlash

FIFA has reversed its decision to bar reusable water bottles from World Cup stadiums after criticism from supporters, campaign groups and politicians. The governing body restored the earlier stadium policy after removing a clause that had allowed empty, transparent reusable plastic bottles of up to one litre; ticket holders were told of the change by email on June 2.

Supporters' groups argued the change put commercial interests ahead of fan welfare. The Football Supporters’ Association said: "Yet again with this World Cup, it is fans last and not fans first." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the policy "just wrong" and suggested it was motivated by making money.

FIFA had pointed to cooling tents and misting stations to meet hydration needs, but those measures failed to satisfy many groups. World Weather Attribution data suggested 26 of the tournament's 104 matches could be played where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees Celsius, raising fears of heat-related illness among supporters.

United Kingdom

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