Fans watching the 2026 World Cup matches in the United States, Canada and Mexico will not be able to use the popular vuvuzelas to create atmosphere in the stands. The International Football Federation (FIFA) has banned these noisy devices as part of the new regulation on behavior in stadiums.

In addition to vuvuzelas, FIFA has also banned whistles and any other device that produces excessive noise, as well as instruments that emit laser beams. The rules will apply in all 16 stadiums where the tournament will take place, which starts on June 11.

Vuvuzelas have become a symbol of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, but have often been the subject of criticism for their monotonous sound, which many liken to the buzzing of a swarm of bees.

Meanwhile, FIFA has also placed restrictions on the items allowed inside stadiums. Under the new code, fans will not be allowed to bring water bottles, on the grounds that they could pose a risk to the safety of players and participants if thrown onto the pitch.

The decision has sparked strong reactions from fan groups, particularly in England. The “Free Lions” fan organization has described the measure as another way to force spectators to buy drinks inside the stadiums, where the supply of water and other drinks is controlled by FIFA’s official sponsors.

Criticism has also increased due to the high temperatures expected during the tournament. The executive director of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, Andrew Giuliani, has also been involved in this issue, who has confirmed that discussions are taking place with FIFA regarding the drinking water policy.

According to the regulation, fans who violate these measures can be refused entry to the stadium or leave the match premises. FIFA states that the purpose of the restrictions is to guarantee the safety and smooth running of the biggest football event in the world.

Source: prizrenpost