UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the ban on drinking in football stands is outdated and discriminatory and should be reconsidered. The rule, introduced in the 1980s, covers the top five tiers of English men's football. The Football Supporters' Association backed trials already run in the women's game, while police chiefs urged full consultation before any change.
Burnham Calls For Repeal Of Football Stand Alcohol Ban, Calling It "Outdated And Discriminatory"
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham attend the English League third round soccer match between Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Hill Dickinson Stadium. (is associated with: «UK's Burnham wants ban on alcohol in football stands to be repealed») Peter Byrne/PA Wire/dpa
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the law that bans drinking in the stands at English football matches is outdated, discriminatory and should be repealed.
Introduced in the 1980s amid concerns about football hooliganism, the restriction currently applies to the top five tiers of English men's football (levels one to five). Burnham — an Everton supporter — argued it is unfair to single out football fans when supporters of other sports are allowed to drink while watching matches.
The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) welcomed the prime minister's comments and noted that pilots allowing alcohol in the stands have been successfully trialled in the women's game. Supporters' groups say carefully managed trials could help assess the impact and practical safeguards required.
However, senior police chiefs cautioned against sudden changes. They warned that lifting the ban without full consultation with police forces and clubs would be "incredibly rash" and stressed the need to consider public safety, crowd management and licensing arrangements.
"I don't think it's fair for football fans to be singled out in that way," Burnham told reporters, adding that the legislation "dates to an era where football was very different" and suggesting any changes could be introduced on a trial basis.
What Would Change
Burnham suggested a measured approach: repeal or amendment could be explored through targeted pilots at select grounds, accompanied by clear licensing rules, stewarding plans and collaboration with police. Any reform would need to balance supporters' experience with safety and disorder prevention.
Next Steps
The debate will now involve ministers, football authorities, the FSA, clubs and police forces. If proposals move forward, expect consultations, pilot programmes and guidance on where and when alcohol could be permitted in stadiums.
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