VANCOUVER — Fans bringing vuvuzelas to World Cup matches will be turned away. The plastic horns that defined the 2010 tournament in South Africa are now banned under FIFA's new stadium code for 2026.
The policy covers all venues in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Beyond vuvuzelas, the list prohibits whistles, air horns and similar noise devices. Musical instruments exceeding 12 centimetres in any dimension need written approval from organizers. Drones and reusable water bottles are also barred.
The code stipulates that body paint and tattoos do not count as clothing. Spectators who ignore the rules risk removal or ticket revocation.
The 48-team tournament begins June 11. Canada opens June 12 against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto, then meets Qatar and Switzerland in Vancouver.