FIFA bans reusable water bottles at Vancouver World Cup matches ahead of tournament

Spectators attending FIFA World Cup matches at Vancouver's BC Place Stadium will no longer be permitted to bring reusable water bottles into the venue under a new policy announced ahead of the tournament.

According to FIFA, the restriction was introduced for security reasons. The organization said reusable bottles could potentially be used as projectiles, creating safety risks for spectators, staff, and participants.

The change comes just before tournament play begins in Vancouver. BC Place is scheduled to host its first World Cup match on June 13, featuring Australia and Türkiye.

FIFA said several other North American tournament venues already prohibit outside bottles. To help spectators manage summer temperatures, the organization said misting stations, cooling tents, and hydration stations will be available outside the stadium, while bottled water will be sold inside the venue.

Some fans and environmental advocates have raised concerns about the policy, citing the potential cost of purchasing water inside the stadium and the possibility of increased plastic waste from single-use bottles.