Football fans might soon enjoy drinks in the stands during matches, depending on the outcome of a trial at women’s games.

Clubs from the Championship such as 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.

1

The selected clubs were chosen based on safety, geographical context, and the fact that locations like Bristol’s Ashton Gate and Newcastle’s Kingston Park already allow alcohol at rugby events.

Authorities in football are keen to evaluate how permitting alcohol could enhance the experience for spectators at women’s football, which is not bound by the same stringent anti-alcohol regulations.

The Sporting Events Act of 1985 does not apply to women’s football, prohibiting alcohol consumption in view of the pitch for the top five men’s leagues.

No arrests occurred during women’s matches last year, and some of the chosen venues permit alcohol during high-level rugby encounters.

Nikki Doucet from Women’s Professional League Ltd said, “I think our fan base and their behavior are distinct.

“Ultimately, it is about providing options for our fans while promoting safety and responsible conduct.”

If this trial proves to be effective, it could be expanded across the Women’s Super League and Championship, possibly shaping future rules for men’s football.

According to Sun Sport in October, the police position regarding men’s football remains unchanged, but there is currently no framework in place to prevent a trial for women’s matches.

Since 1985, the restriction on drinking in sight of the pitch has been applicable to the top five divisions of men’s football.

Fans breaching the laws established by the 1985 act may face stadium bans, hefty fines, and, in severe cases, incarceration for up to three months.