Burnham signals ban may end

The prime minister says the 40-year-old rule banning alcohol in football stands is unfair and discriminatory, especially when rugby and cricket fans can drink freely.

“I don't think it's fair for football fans to be singled out in that way”

The 1985 law that started it all

The Sporting Events Control of Alcohol Act was passed in 1985 to combat football violence fuelled by drinking. It prohibits alcohol consumption in sight of the pitch across England and Wales.

Fans and leagues welcome review

The Football Supporters' Association and English Football League both back reconsidering the ban, saying it's outdated and doesn't reflect modern stadium safety practices.

“it's unfair to criminalise football fans for having a pint while watching the match”

Police warn of safety risks

The UK Football Policing Unit says changing the law would be rash without examining evidence, noting football sees more supporter violence than other sports where alcohol is permitted.

“It would be incredibly rash to make fundamental changes without a full examination of the evidence”

Women's football already allows it

Since this season, women's Super League fans can drink in view of the pitch following an 18-month trial. Twenty-five of 26 clubs now permit it, with few crowd trouble incidents reported.

A trial approach could work

Burnham suggested piloting the change in lower-tier football rather than making immediate sweeping changes, following a recommendation from a 2021 fan-led governance review.

“There are different ways it could be done, perhaps on a trial basis”