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UK football fans oppose lifting alcohol ban in stadium stands

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 2:30 PM

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

UK football fans oppose lifting alcohol ban in stadium stands

Summary

A survey shows most football fans in the UK want to keep the ban on drinking alcohol in stadium stands. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for a review of the law established in 1985, arguing it discriminates against football fans compared to other sports. However, a YouGov poll reveals that 64% of match-going fans support maintaining the ban. Concerns over the impact of alcohol on safety have led to resistance from the UK Football Policing Unit, which cited historical tragedies in football. The Football Supporters’ Association has welcomed Burnham's proposal but stressed that alcohol was not a factor in incidents like the Hillsborough disaster.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•64% of fans support keeping the alcohol ban in stands.
•Prime Minister Andy Burnham argues for reviewing the decades-old law.
•UK Football Policing Unit warns against lifting the ban due to safety concerns.
•The Football Supporters’ Association welcomes the proposal for change.

Latest Updates

2:30 PMYahoo Sports — UK football fans reject calls to lift alcohol ban in stadium stands

What they're saying

"
Most football fans in the United Kingdom believe the ban on drinking alcohol in the stands should not be lifted, challenging calls to review the decades-old restriction, The Times reports.Prime Minist...
— Yahoo Sports

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