Fans who planned to take vuvuzelas to World Cup games will have to give up their horns. FIFA banned the use of instruments in stadiums in the United States, Canada and Mexico, according to the entity’s code of conduct for tournament venues.
Vuvuzelas, made of plastic and associated with South African football, were a worldwide success at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Since then, however, the monotonous sound they emit — often compared to the buzzing of a swarm of bees — has generated criticism in different countries.
In addition, whistles, horns and other devices with excessive noise are prohibited in the 16 tournament venues. Instruments that emit laser beams or similar pointers were also included in the list of prohibited items.
The regulation goes beyond objects. Body painting and tattoos on the body are not considered clothing, and the exposure of private parts — whether through field invasion, exhibitionism or the removal of clothing — is also prohibited.
FIFA also banned reusable water bottles from entering stadiums, citing safety reasons. Fans who fail to comply with the rules may be denied entry or removed from the venue.
