WSL clubs permitted to serve alcohol in stands from next season
Short overview
All Women's Super League clubs can offer alcohol to supporters in view of the pitch from the 2025-26 season after a rule change. The decision follows two seasons of successful trials across 190 fixtures in England's top two tiers.
All Women's Super League (WSL) clubs will be permitted to serve alcohol to supporters in view of the pitch from the start of the 2025-26 season, following a rule change by the league's governing company, WSL Football. The move comes after two seasons of successful trials in the WSL and WSL 2, and received shareholders' approval.
Trials pave the way for policy change
During the 2025-26 season, 20 clubs participated in alcohol trials at 29 venues across 190 fixtures in England's top two tiers. The trials allowed the league to assess the impact of alcohol consumption in stadiums before removing the previous restriction that prevented alcohol being consumed in view of the pitch.
Clubs are not required to supply alcohol if they do not wish to, and can choose whether to provide it at some of their playing venues and not at others. This flexibility allows clubs to tailor their approach based on local regulations, fan preferences, or stadium facilities.
Club responses
Everton and promoted Charlton Athletic confirmed on Monday that they would continue to supply alcohol at games, building on their trial participation. Other clubs are expected to announce their decisions in the coming weeks.
Context: Contrast with men's football regulations
The Sporting Events Control of Alcohol Act currently prevents drinking alcohol when facing the pitch at men's football matches at professional level in England, Scotland, and Wales. The WSL's decision marks a significant departure from that longstanding rule, reflecting a different regulatory approach for the women's game.
The change aligns the WSL with other major women's sports leagues and international football events where alcohol sales in stadiums are common. It also responds to fan demand for greater matchday experience options.
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