A new trial will allow football fans to drink alcohol in the stands at matches of two second-tier women’s clubs in England during the current 2024-25 season.
This marks a potential shift from the longstanding 39-year ban on alcohol consumption in view of the pitch at English football matches, which was introduced in 1985 under Margaret Thatcher's government to combat hooliganism.
Currently, the ban applies across both men's and women's football in England, including the Premier League, Women's Super League (WSL), and Women's Championship. However, many European countries, such as Germany and Italy, permit fans to drink alcohol in the stands during matches.
The trial will be conducted under the supervision of Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL), which became independent from the FA in August 2024 and now oversees the top two tiers of women’s football in England.
Nikki Doucet, head of the WPLL, highlighted the difference in behaviour between fans of men’s and women’s football, stating that the trial aims to offer more choice to fans while ensuring safety and responsibility.
Although the trial's details are still being finalised, it is set to take place during this season, with the participating clubs yet to be confirmed.
Source:
The Metro
