Alcohol consumption in the stands at football matches, long banned in men’s games, is set to be trialled at two Women’s Championship clubs this season.
The Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL), which governs the top two tiers of women’s football in England, announced the initiative as part of efforts to capitalise on the sport’s growth.
This move marks a significant departure from the 39-year-old ban in men’s football, which was implemented to curb hooliganism.
The trial aims to explore potential changes in fan experience whilst maintaining safety standards.
The trial, still in its early stages, has yet to select the participating clubs.
Nikki Doucet, chief executive of the WPLL, explained the rationale behind the decision at the Leaders Week London event: “We are going to test it in a couple of teams in the Championship this season and we will see what we will learn from that.”
Two Women’s Championship clubs will trial alcohol consumption in the stands
PA
Doucet emphasised the distinct nature of women’s football supporters, stating, “I think the behaviour of our fan base is different.
It is about giving our fans choices while maintaining safety and being responsible.”
The WPLL, which took charge of the Women’s Super League and Championship in August, can now implement such changes without Football Association oversight.
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The alcohol ban in men’s football has been in place since 1985, introduced as part of the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act to combat hooliganism.
This legislation applies to the top five tiers of men’s football in England.
However, the ban in women’s football has been self-imposed by football authorities until now.
Football fans have had to drink at half-time or before matches over the last 35 years
PA
“They know they are great basketball players and I’d like to see more of that [towards the WSL].”
The WPLL is also reviewing homegrown player rules, acknowledging the smaller global talent pool in women’s football.
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Alcohol has been banned from drinking in the stands at clubs in the top five divisions since 1985
Doucet emphasised, “It is crucial we have investment to give access to girls to play football.”
The newly launched WPLL can now change these rules without FA oversight.
Women’s Championship matches, typically held at smaller venues with average attendances around 2,000 or lower, have not faced the same issues with hooliganism as men’s football historically.
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The trial aligns with broader efforts to grow women’s football in England. Doucet drew parallels with other sports, stating, “When I look at what the NBA is doing and the respect they are showing to the WNBA – that’s very authentic.
While the alcohol trial progresses, Doucet confirmed there are no plans to alter the Saturday 3pm broadcast blackout in Britain.