New Delhi, June 4 -- FIFA has introduced a last-minute rule change that stops fans from carrying refillable water bottles into any of the 16 stadiums hosting the 2026 World Cup across North America. The updated Stadium Code of Conduct, released just days before the tournament begins, has triggered frustration among fan groups who say the move feels like a money-making decision rather than a safety measure.

Until this week, FIFA's guidelines permitted fans to bring transparent, reusable bottles with a maximum capacity of one litre. The new document removes that option completely. It now states clearly that reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadiums. Several venues had already enforced similar restrictions, and FIFA has de...