Stadium beer ban 'may be lifted' to entice football fans back to crowded venues

Posted Wednesday, August 05, 2020 by Dailystar.co.uk

Fans from the Premier League down to the National League have been unable to drink alcohol within view of the pitch since 1985 but that could all change amid the coronavirus pandemic

A lifting of football’s booze ban is reportedly being considered as discussions continue over allowing supporters back into venues amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Football fans have been unable to watch their team in action since March with the end of the season being played behind closed doors.

There is hope that supporters will be able to return in some capacity from October with the Premier League new season set to start on September 12.

Fans at matches from the Premier League down to the National League have been forbidden from drinking within sight of the pitch since 1985.

Stadium beer ban 'may be lifted' to entice football fans back to crowded venues

But the Daily Mail claim a lifting of that alcohol ban is being considered among proposals to bring fans back into stadiums.

It’s reported that the move would be made in order to avoid the threat of congestion on concourses.

The lifting of the ban would allow fans to drink in their seats with some clubs already having the technology to see food and drink delivered directly to seats.

Stadium beer ban 'may be lifted' to entice football fans back to crowded venues

EFL chairman Shaun Harvey previously called for a review on the ban.

He said in 2018: "There is no doubt football has changed dramatically in the 30-plus years since the introduction of the act and to have a blanket ban on alcohol in view of the playing area remaining in 2018 is, in our view, disproportionate to today's level of risk.

"Alongside the potential increase in disorder considerations, one of the key issues that requires further examination is the fact football is being treated inconsistently with other sports - some that occur in the same venue.

"The EFL would always request football is treated consistently and given the same opportunities as other sports, so the many law-abiding citizens attending matches who wish to be able to drink while posing no threat to public order are able to do so."