The Women's Super League (WSL) and Women's Championship will permit fans to consume alcohol in their seats from the 2026-27 season, after a successful trial that reported no significant issues. The decision marks a major shift in English football's approach to alcohol in stadiums, which has historically been restricted to concourse areas.
Successful trial paves way
The Football Association (FA) confirmed the policy change on Monday, citing a pilot program conducted at select WSL and Championship matches during the 2025-26 campaign. The trial allowed fans to drink alcohol while watching the game from their seats, a practice previously banned in English football's top two women's tiers. According to the FA, no arrests or incidents related to alcohol consumption were recorded during the trial period.
Baroness Sue Campbell, the FA's director of women's football, said: "The trial demonstrated that fans can enjoy a drink responsibly while watching the game. We are confident that this change will enhance the matchday experience for supporters without compromising safety."
Details of the policy
Starting next season, all WSL and Championship clubs may apply for a license to allow alcohol consumption in spectator seating areas. The policy applies to all areas of the stadium, including stands and terraces, except for family sections where alcohol will remain prohibited. Clubs must ensure that staff are trained to manage alcohol sales responsibly and that sufficient non-alcoholic options are available.
The move aligns the women's game with practices in other sports and leagues, such as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) in the United States, where alcohol is permitted in seats. It also brings the WSL and Championship in line with some men's football leagues abroad, though the English Premier League and English Football League still prohibit alcohol in view of the pitch under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985.
Reaction from fans and clubs
Fan groups have broadly welcomed the change. Sarah Connolly, chair of the WSL Supporters' Trust, said: "This is a common-sense decision that recognizes the family-friendly and respectful atmosphere at women's matches. Fans have long wanted the same freedom to enjoy a drink in their seat as they do in other sports."
Several clubs, including Arsenal Women and Chelsea Women, have already expressed interest in adopting the new policy. A spokesperson for Arsenal said: "We are pleased to see the FA taking this step. Our trial matches showed that fans can be trusted to drink responsibly, and we look forward to implementing the change next season."
Impact on matchday experience
The policy is expected to boost revenue for clubs through increased concession sales. A study by the FA estimated that allowing alcohol in seats could increase matchday revenue by up to 15% per game. Additionally, the change may attract new fans who prefer the convenience of drinking at their seat rather than missing action to visit concourse bars.
However, some safety campaigners have expressed caution. Amanda Jacks, a spokesperson for the Football Supporters' Association, noted: "We support the trial's findings but urge clubs to remain vigilant. The key is to maintain the inclusive, safe environment that has made women's football so popular."
Next steps
The FA will issue detailed guidance to clubs over the summer, including best practices for managing alcohol sales and preventing underage drinking. Clubs must submit their implementation plans by August 2026 to be approved for the upcoming season. The policy will be reviewed after two years to assess its long-term impact.
