Burnham Says Football Alcohol Ban Could Be Dropped

A ban on supporters drinking alcohol in football stands could be overturned, after the prime minister said the restriction is discriminatory and no longer fits the sport’s current landscape.

The rule, which prohibits fans from drinking while in view of the pitch, has been in place in the top five tiers of men’s football since 1985. It was introduced amid concerns about violence and hooliganism during that period, when police and football authorities sought tighter control in stadiums.

Burnham Says The Rules Are Unequal

Andy Burnham said he believes the ban is unfair because it does not apply in the same way to spectators at other sports.

He argued that football fans should not be singled out, adding that the legislation was created in “an era where football was very different”. Burnham suggested any change could be done through a trial approach.

He also said the issue has been a longstanding view, arguing it is not reasonable for supporters of one sport to face different restrictions from those attending other events.

The Football Supporters’ Association welcomed his comments. The group pointed to trials of alcohol sales during women’s matches, saying the approach had shown it could be managed in stadium settings.

Its chairman, Tom Greatrex, said it remained unfair that supporters cannot buy a pint while watching a game, particularly as spectators can drink while seated at other entertainment and sports events.

Police Warn Against Changing Without Consultation

While Burnham signalled openness to reform, the UK Football Policing Unit cautioned against altering the rules without proper scrutiny.

It said changing the ban would be “incredibly rash” without consultation, arguing that other sports do not experience the same level of violence and criminal behaviour associated with football supporters, even if such incidents involve only a minority. The unit said alcohol can play a role in violent and disorderly conduct in some cases.

The policing body’s position echoed wider concerns that any relaxation of restrictions would need careful planning to protect safety.

Debate Moves After Earlier Calls And Scotland Trials

Burnham first raised the issue in July, shortly before taking office. He made the comments while watching rugby league at Everton’s stadium, where he saw fans holding pints in their seats. Speaking about the comparison, he said football supporters were not allowed the same option at an Everton home match, arguing that the discrepancy needed to be addressed.

Education Secretary Lucy Powell said it was positive that Burnham had opened a conversation, but she stressed that any changes must preserve a “family environment” and a positive atmosphere. She noted that alcohol can already be consumed at half time and before matches, and said alcohol availability also exists around clubs for those who choose to drink before entering stadiums.

Powell contrasted football with other sports, saying cricket and rugby operate with fewer limits on drinking.

Separate measures are already under way in Scotland. Fans will be able to buy alcohol in two areas of the Hampden Park concourse during upcoming matches against Switzerland and Slovenia, following trials earlier this year that were described as successful.

Alcohol restrictions in Scottish stadiums have been in place since the early 1980s, setting the backdrop for discussions over whether similar approaches can be used elsewhere.

Join the discussion?

24 September 2026