WSL to Expand Alcohol-in-Stands Trial to Seven Top-Flight Clubs in 2025-26 Season

Seven Women’s Super League clubs will allow fans to drink alcohol in the stands during matches next season, following a successful trial in the second tier.

Reigning champions Chelsea, along with Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Everton, Liverpool, and London City Lionesses, are among those participating in the pilot during the 2025-26 campaign.

The initiative builds on last season’s trial at four second-tier clubs – now rebranded as WSL2 – where fans were allowed to consume alcohol within view of the pitch. WSL Football, the league’s operator, reported no safety incidents and said match officials observed no changes in fan behaviour.

Over 51,000 supporters took part in the initial trial, with 66% backing the initiative. Holly Murdoch, WSL Football’s chief operating officer, said the expansion is “part of our strategy to offer a best-in-class experience.”

While the consumption of alcohol in the stands is prohibited in men’s professional football in the UK, it remains legal in the women’s game. The Football Supporters’ Association welcomed the move, suggesting similar research could eventually inform policy changes across the men’s leagues.

“Of course not every supporter wants a pint in the stands – but we don't believe those who do should be criminalised either,” said FSA chair Tom Greatrex.

WSL2 clubs also taking part in the ongoing trial include Birmingham City, Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Newcastle United, Sheffield United, Sunderland, and Southampton.