- FIFA Bans Vuvuzelas and Loud Noise Devices from 2026 World Cup Stadiums
Fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico will not be allowed to bring vuvuzelas into stadiums after FIFA officially banned the popular plastic horns as part of its tournament code of conduct.
The decision means one of football’s most recognisable fan instruments made famous during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa will be absent from all 16 tournament venues when the expanded 48-team competition begins on June 11.
Vuvuzelas became a global symbol of the 2010 tournament, creating a constant buzzing atmosphere inside stadiums. While many supporters embraced the unique sound and festive energy, critics complained about the loud, repetitive noise, often comparing it to the sound of a swarm of bees.
According to FIFA’s updated stadium regulations, vuvuzelas are grouped together with whistles, air horns and other excessively loud noise-making devices that are now prohibited during matches.
The governing body also confirmed that laser pointers and any devices capable of emitting laser beams have been banned from venues due to safety and security concerns.
FIFA’s code of conduct further outlines strict behaviour and dress regulations for supporters attending games. The rules state that body paint or body tattoos will not count as clothing, while streaking, flashing or removing clothes to expose intimate body parts is also forbidden.
Another notable change is the ban on reusable water bottles inside stadiums. FIFA says the restriction is being enforced for safety reasons during the month-long tournament.
Supporters who fail to comply with the regulations risk being denied entry or removed from stadiums during matches.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in the competition’s history, featuring 48 nations across North America from June 11 to July 19. Mexico is scheduled to kick off the tournament against South Africa in the opening match.
