UMVA has learned that Fifa has made a sudden change to its World Cup policy, allowing fans to bring a single, factory-sealed, 590ml plastic water bottle into matches, following a fierce backlash from fans and experts.
The reversal comes after widespread criticism of Fifa's initial decision to ban reusable water bottles, which had been expected to be permitted. Fans had been told that only empty, transparent bottles up to one liter would be allowed, but were later informed that even these would not be permitted.
Sir Keir Starmer was among those who spoke out against the original decision, labeling it a "money-making exercise" that would unfairly burden fans who had already paid exorbitant prices for tickets, ranging from £160 to £450 for a single seat.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Fifa's World Cup chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, explained that "hard-sided" reusable containers were deemed a safety and security risk, prompting the organization to relax its stance on water bottles.
Under the revised policy, fans will be allowed to bring one soft, plastic, 20-ounce (590ml) factory-sealed disposable water bottle to all matches in the US and Canada. This move is expected to provide some relief to fans who would otherwise be forced to purchase expensive beverages onsite.
At last year's Club World Cup in the US, fans were permitted to bring empty bottles, and water was sold for prices between £3 and £4.50. The decision to ban empty containers was defended by Fifa as a measure to "prevent risk and injury to players and attendees."
England fan group Free Lions described the original move as the "latest money-grab," expressing concerns that fans would be forced to buy overpriced water and other essentials at the stadium. The group had been assured by Fifa that fans would have the ability to bring their own water bottles.
Experts have warned that temperatures could reach dangerous levels at 14 of the 16 stadia across North America, making access to affordable and plentiful water a pressing concern for fans. The change in policy is seen as a welcome move, but some fans remain skeptical about the motives behind Fifa's initial decision.
