FIFA’s reversal on its initial ban of water bottles at World Cup 2026 matches has not put an end to concerns over dehydration risks. Following criticism from fans, health experts and environmental organizations, the governing body has authorized spectators in the United States and Canada to bring one factory-sealed, single-use plastic water bottle of up to 590 ml into stadiums, while maintaining the ban on reusable containers. The decision has brought the delicate balance between safety, public health and sustainability back into the spotlight.
According to FIFA, the restriction on reusable bottles is driven by safety concerns, as rigid containers could potentially be used as projectiles inside sports venues. However, the adopted solution has raised environmental concerns. Allowing only single-use plastic bottles could significantly increase the amount of plastic waste generated during the tournament, running counter to the circular economy and single-use plastic reduction goals that many stadiums and event organizers worldwide are pursuing.
The World Cup 2026 case highlights an issue that is becoming increasingly important for the events industry: how to ensure safety, comfort and access to drinking water without compromising waste reduction objectives.
For the packaging and sustainability sectors, the challenge will be to develop solutions that reduce reliance on single-use packaging while maintaining the safety standards required at major international events. With more than six million spectators expected throughout the tournament, FIFA’s decisions could become an important test case for the future evolution of packaging management strategies and reuse systems in global sporting events.
