The Chief Safety and Security Officer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, GB Jones, has urged fans to acquaint themselves with stadium safety regulations ahead of next year’s tournament.

He spoke at a forum organised by the Africa Center of the Atlantic Council.

Jones highlighted that several popular fan items, including certain musical instruments, fireworks, and other pyrotechnic devices will be prohibited across venues in North America.

He stressed that the measures were not meant to interfere with fan culture, but to enhance safety and fun for everyone.

"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 emphasised.

Fans were encouraged to consult FIFA’s official website and ticketing platforms for a full list of banned items to avoid last-minute disappointments on matchdays.

"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," Jones noted.

He also reassured fans that FIFA fully supported vibrant, fan-driven energy, including banners, flags, and other colourful displays, as long as they met safety requirements.

"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," he concluded.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, will run from 11 June to 19 July 2026.