FIFA officials have reversed their decision on allowing fans to bring reusable water bottles into World Cup stadiums, now issuing a ban.

Just three weeks earlier, FIFA had updated its code of conduct for North American venues to permit “empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles, up to (1 liter in capacity),” inside stadiums.

That guidance has now been withdrawn. Instead of refilling bottles at stadium water fountains, fans will now be required to purchase bottled water inside the venues.

In a statement to NBC News on Thursday, a FIFA spokesperson sought to explain the reversal.

“FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees,” read the statement.”

Outside bottles are already banned at several of the venues for security reasons, and FIFA says it is extending that policy consistently across all tournament stadiums.

The World Cup will feature 48 teams competing across North America, with matches scheduled in 16 stadiums spanning the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Roughly a dozen of the stadiums are in regions where intense summer heat and humidity can pose health risks for both players and spectators.

Several matches during the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States were also affected by extreme heat conditions.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19.

In its statement, FIFA said it is working closely with local authorities to implement a heat safety plan.

“FIFA works closely with each host city committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans traveling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium footprint,” the statement said.

FIFA said the price of water inside stadiums will not exceed what venues typically charge.