Sir Keir Starmer has sharply criticised Fifa’s decision to prohibit fans from bringing refillable water bottles into World Cup stadiums, branding the move “wrong” and motivated by money.
The football governing body’s code of conduct for ticket holders previously allowed empty, transparent, reusable bottles of up to one litre capacity.
However, an update issued to ticket holders on 2 June, first reported by The Athletic, confirmed that reusable bottles are now no longer permitted.
The ban has already drawn condemnation from fan groups and scientific experts, who had previously voiced concerns regarding the impact of extreme heat on spectator welfare.
While Fifa states the ban aims to “prevent risk and injury to players and attendees”, Sir Keir told LBC: “It’s just wrong. And I can’t help but think that it’s about making money.
“So you can’t bring plastic bottles in but you can buy a bottle of water when you get in the crowd? And then it’ll be expensive. The tickets themselves cost a fortune, far too expensive in my view.
“So the ticket sales are too high. And this is the wrong policy.”
Starmer was asked whether he would contact Fifa, and replied: “Well, I would call on FIFA to just look again at this.
“Think about it. Think of the fans. They are football fans from all sorts of backgrounds across our country, across the world. They’re already spending a fortune getting there. They’ve got to pay a lot for tickets, too much in my book.
“Don’t impose further costs on them. So I’d say (to) Fifa, look again.”
A Fifa spokesperson said about the water bottle ban on Thursday: “FIFA is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff.
“FIFA made the decision to prohibit bottles to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.
“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations and Fifa is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums.
“Fifa works closely with each host city committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans travelling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents and more around the stadium footprint.
“Inside the stadium footprint, pricing for water bottles for the Fifa World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at each stadium.”
Fans attending last summer’s Club World Cup in the United States had been permitted to bring empty bottles in with them. Water was also on sale at Club World Cup stadia, at prices between £3 and £4.50.
The Free Lions England fan embassy criticised the decision, posting on X: “What next? Sun cream banned and fans forced to buy it in stadiums?
“Naturally, the immediate thought from supporters is this is just the latest money-grab. For how hot the stadiums will be, many in open air, just let fans bring a bottle if they want to.
“We hope the water fountains in stadiums will still be free, hopefully you aren’t charged in the queue!”
