‘A real health risk’: Fifa ban on reusable water bottles sparks anger among fans

Supporters groups condemn ‘immoral’ u-turn

Fifa says policy a safety measure to prevent injury

Fifa has been accused of putting revenue ahead of fans’ health after banning reusable water bottles from being taken into World Cup stadiums. In a late U-turn, the governing body rowed back on its advice that empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles would be permitted inside venues, instead prohibiting them “to prevent risk and injury to players and attendees”.

The decision has sparked concern among supporters’ groups, with sweltering conditions expected at many stadiums and little information provided about how else fans can easily access water.