FIFA bans Vuvuzelas ahead of 2026 World Cup

Football fans hoping to bring extra atmosphere to the 2026 World Cup will have to do without Vuvuzelas, after FIFA confirmed a ban on the plastic horns across stadiums in the United States, Canada and Mexico

The instruments, long plastic horns popular in South African football culture, became globally famous during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. However, they have also drawn widespread criticism for their constant droning sound, often compared to the buzzing of a swarm of bees.

According to FIFA’s stadium code of conduct, vuvuzelas are among a list of prohibited items, alongside whistles, air horns and other excessively loud noise-making devices that will not be allowed inside any of the 16 tournament venues.

The regulations also extend to other restricted items, including devices capable of emitting laser beams or similar light projections, with laser pointers explicitly banned.

FIFA further stated that body paint or tattoos do not qualify as clothing, while actions such as streaking, flashing, or removing clothing to expose intimate body parts are strictly prohibited inside stadiums.

In addition, reusable water bottles will not be permitted at venues, with organisers citing safety concerns.

The governing body warned that any fan who violates the rules risks being denied entry or removed from the stadium.