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Football fans attending matches at World Cup stadiums will be prohibited from bringing reusable water bottles, FIFA has announced in a last-minute policy shift. The decision, citing safety concerns, has been made just days before the tournament kicks off.

FIFA released a statement outlining the new regulations, emphasising the need to maintain a secure environment for all attendees. Specific details regarding the rationale behind the ban remain limited, but the governing body insists it is a precautionary measure.

Stadiums across the host nation will implement the ban, meaning supporters will need to either purchase water inside the venues or forgo bringing their own containers. Alternative hydration options within the stadiums are expected to be available, though pricing and availability details have yet to be fully confirmed.

This late change to stadium entry protocols has been met with some frustration among fans who had planned to utilise reusable bottles to reduce plastic waste and save money. Social media has seen a flurry of discussion regarding the announcement, with many questioning the reasoning behind the decision and its potential impact on hydration levels during matches, particularly in hot weather conditions.

While FIFA has not provided extensive clarification, the focus on safety underscores the importance placed on security protocols throughout the World Cup. Further updates regarding hydration options and stadium regulations are anticipated in the coming days as the tournament approaches. The ban applies to all attendees, regardless of ticket type or seating location.