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FIFA has introduced another significant restriction for supporters attending the 2026 World Cup, confirming that vuvuzelas and other loud noise-making devices will be banned across all tournament venues in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The decision forms part of FIFA's official stadium code of conduct for the expanded 48-team competition and comes shortly after controversy surrounding the governing body's policy on reusable water bottles, which were initially prohibited from stadiums on safety grounds, but have now been partially allowed.
With more than six million supporters expected to attend matches during the tournament, FIFA is continuing to tighten its event-day regulations as it prepares for the largest World Cup in history.
Why has FIFA banned vuvuzelas?
The vuvuzela became one of the defining symbols of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The long plastic horn was widely used by supporters throughout the tournament, creating a constant drone that became instantly recognisable around the world.
While many fans embraced the unique atmosphere it generated, others criticised the noise, arguing that it drowned out chants, commentary and communication both inside stadiums and on television broadcasts.
As a result, FIFA has now officially prohibited vuvuzelas, whistles, air horns and any other excessively loud noise-making devices from all 16 World Cup venues.
The ban also extends to laser pointers and similar devices capable of emitting laser beams, which have become an increasing concern at major sporting events due to their potential impact on players, officials and spectators.
Supporters found carrying prohibited items may be denied entry or removed from stadiums if they breach tournament regulations.
What other items are prohibited at the 2026 World Cup?
The vuvuzela ban is only one part of a much wider code of conduct issued by FIFA.
One of the most controversial measures has been the decision to prohibit reusable water bottles from being brought into stadiums. FIFA has cited safety concerns for the restriction, although the move generated debate among supporters who had expected reusable bottles to align with modern sustainability initiatives and the governing have now partially backtracked.
The governing body has also clarified rules surrounding clothing and supporter behaviour. According to tournament regulations, body paint and body tattoos do not qualify as clothing, while streaking, flashing and other forms of public nudity remain strictly prohibited.
The regulations are designed to create a safe and family-friendly environment across all host venues during the month-long tournament.
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to run from 11 June to 19 July and will be the first edition featuring 48 participating nations. Matches will be staged across 16 cities in three countries, making it the largest and most geographically expansive tournament FIFA has ever organised.
FGG says: FIFA continues prioritising control over tradition
Tournament organisers face an enormous challenge managing millions of supporters across three host nations, so some restrictions are inevitable. Few fans will complain about laser pointers being banned, and safety concerns should always remain a priority.
However, the vuvuzela decision highlights FIFA's ongoing balancing act between preserving football culture and maintaining control over the matchday experience. Love them or hate them, vuvuzelas became one of the most memorable symbols of a World Cup.
For many supporters, the latest ban is another reminder that modern tournaments increasingly prioritise regulation and consistency over some of football's more colourful traditions.