Drinking ban for football fans could be lifted after 35 years

Drinking in the stands at football matches has been banned since 1985

Football fans could be allowed to drink alcohol in the stands next season, as the footballing authorities consider ways of allowing fans back into stadiums in the safest way possible, according to a Daily Mail exclusive. The drinking ban, written into law in the Sporting Events Act 1985, was introduced by Margaret Thatcher's government during an era of rife hooliganism and outlaws 'the consumption of alcohol within view of the playing area'. Discussions are ongoing around how to bring fans back into stadiums in a safe manner amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and after 35 years, the ban could be lifted in an attempt to minimise crowding in the concourse. Anyone who has been to a football match will be well aware of the half-time rush to the bar, which leads to unhygienic dense crowding. There is a growing belief that the law is outdated, with match-going rugby and cricket fans permitted to drink in their seats, and that an update is due regardless of the Covid-19 situation. The government are hoping to see fans start attending games again in October, if safe - don't hold your breath, actually do - and this change could be brought in on a trial basis.