FIFA’s Chief Safety and Security Officer, G.B. Jones, has urged African football fans travelling to the 2026 World Cup to carefully check the list of prohibited items to know what is allowed in stadiums before setting off.
In an interview shared on X by sports journalist Gary Al-Smith on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Jones emphasised that while FIFA encourages fan passion, certain items — including pyrotechnics, fireworks, and some musical instruments — will not be permitted inside stadiums in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“With respect to what to bring to the World Cup, we want you to bring your passion, but leave your pyro. We don’t want the fireworks with the smoke or the pyrotechnicians in the stadium. But we want to embrace the passion,” Jones said.
He explained that FIFA encourages fans to bring national flags, banners, and other cultural expressions that enhance the atmosphere, saying these elements contribute to the unique World Cup experience.
Jones also highlighted that safety and security preparations start long before fans leave their countries.
“Please understand our prohibited items include those which will be listed on our website or on the ticket information. Know what you can and cannot bring to the stadium,” he noted.
Fans travelling to stadiums across the United States, Mexico, and Canada are expected to adhere to these rules.
While items such as drums and certain musical instruments are typically prohibited, the FIFA security chief noted that supporter groups may petition FIFA through the official site for approval within specified parameters.
“We want to ensure that you can get all your items into all the stadiums. Fans should bring what will help them celebrate, but within the limits set for safety,” Jones said.
