FIFA has announced a reversal of its ban on bringing water bottles into World Cup matches, allowing fans to carry one factory-sealed 590ml plastic bottle. This decision comes after significant backlash from fans and experts, who criticized the initial prohibition of reusable bottles as a profit-driven policy. Previously, fans had been informed that only empty bottles would be allowed, despite earlier assurances that transparent bottles up to one litre would be permitted. The ban led to concerns about high beverage prices at stadiums, where water is sold for £3 to £4.50. Sir Keir Starmer condemned the original policy as a 'money-making exercise', while fan groups expressed frustration over the lack of free water availability and the potential for dangerous temperatures at many venues. FIFA's chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, justified the initial ban by citing safety risks associated with hard-sided containers, but the new policy aims to enhance fan experience during the tournament in the US and Canada.