Football enthusiasts may soon enjoy beverages in the stands during matches, depending on the outcome of a trial at women’s games.
Clubs from the Championship, including Newcastle, Southampton, Birmingham, and Bristol City, will permit alcohol consumption at select matches, excluding derby games, starting January 19 and continuing until the end of the season.
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The selected teams were chosen based on safety factors, geographic considerations, and because venues such as Bristol’s Ashton Gate and Newcastle’s Kingston Park already allow alcohol during rugby games.
Authorities in football are keen to evaluate how alcohol consumption could enhance the spectator experience at women’s football, which is not restricted by the same stringent anti-alcohol regulations.
Women’s football is exempt from the Sporting Events Act 1985, which prohibits alcohol consumption in sight of the pitch in the top five men’s leagues.
Last year, no arrests occurred during women’s matches, and some of the chosen venues permit alcohol during high-level rugby events.
Nikki Doucet, a representative from Women’s Professional League Ltd, stated: “I believe our fan base and behavior are distinct.
“Ultimately, it’s about providing options for our fans while ensuring safety and responsible conduct.”
If this trial yields positive results, it may be extended throughout the Women’s Super League and Championship, possibly impacting future policies for men’s football.
Sun Sport reported in October that the police position on men’s football has remained unchanged, although no current framework hinders a trial for women’s matches.
Since 1985, the restriction on drinking in view of the pitch has been pertinent to the top five divisions of men’s football.
Fans breaching the regulations established by the 1985 act could face stadium bans, large fines, and in severe cases, up to three months in prison.
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