Andy Burnham has suggested he would lift the ban on football supporters drinking alcohol in stadiums when he becomes Prime Minister. In a video posted on X on July 4, 2026, Burnham highlighted the inconsistency of the law, which allows drinking in seats at rugby, tennis, and cricket matches but prohibits it in men's football.
The law, introduced in 1985 to combat hooliganism, bans fans from consuming alcohol within direct sight of the pitch. However, it does not apply to women's football as of last month, following a successful trial at selected Women's Super League clubs. Rugby fans, tennis spectators, and cricket attendees have long been able to drink in their seats without restrictions.
Burnham Questions the Inconsistency
In the video, Burnham congratulated Leigh Leopards on their rugby league victory against Warrington Wolves at Hill Dickinson stadium, the home of Everton FC. Turning the camera towards Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotheram, who held up a pint of beer, Burnham asked: 'How come these lads can do that in my seat here when we can't do that at an Everton home game? There's something wrong there, I think we need to look at that.'
Labour MP and Burnham backer Luke Charters responded by offering his support, linking to his own calls for a trial in May 2025. Charters said at the time: 'Perhaps it is time for a modern approach to a modern game. The days of hooliganism are gone. Fans of other sports can drink in the stands but football fans cannot.'
Details of the Current Law
Legislation to bar spectators from drinking while watching football was introduced in 1985 after concerns over violence in the stands. The ban does not prevent people from buying alcohol at bars within the stadium, but they are not allowed to take it back to their seats. The law applies only to men's football, creating what Burnham and others view as an unfair discrepancy.
Burnham is expected to become the UK's next Prime Minister on July 20, 2026, provided Labour MPs opposed to a coronation are unable to unite behind a challenger. His comments signal a potential policy shift if he takes office.
