Sir Keir Starmer lays into Fifa claiming bottle ban for World Cup is 'about making money'

Sir Keir Starmer has laid into Fifa over its decision to stop fans from bringing in refillable water bottles into World Cup stadiums.

Fifa U-turned on their decision on June 2, with the move being criticised by fan groups and health experts.

Football's governing body said the ban was to "prevent risk and injury to players and attendees".

Sir Keir disagreed, saying: "It's just wrong. And I can't help but think that it's about making money.

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"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."

The Prime Minister told LBC he "would call on Fifa to look again" at the ban they are imposing.

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The Prime Minister continued: "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: 'Fifa, look again'."

Addressing the ban, a Fifa spokesman said: "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."

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!"

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