Pilot projects to allow alcohol sales at Scottish football matches could be on the table, with Police Scotland reportedly open to discussions. However, the Scottish government remains cautious, with no immediate plans to change the decades-old law.
Government Considers Limited Trials
A briefing prepared for First Minister John Swinney ahead of Scotland’s match against Croatia in November revealed that “a limited number of pilot projects” could be considered. These trials would gather evidence on how alcohol sales impact football crowds.
The document, released under the Freedom of Information Act, acknowledged that Police Scotland was open to discussions. Despite this, the Scottish government has stated it currently has “no plans” to change the law, which has been in place since 1981 following violent clashes at the Scottish Cup final a year earlier.
Current Alcohol Rules and the Push for Change
Alcohol isn’t entirely absent from Scottish football stadiums. Fans can drink in approved fan zones or hospitality areas, but alcohol sales on general concourses remain prohibited. The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has been advocating for a rethink, arguing that certain low-risk matches could permit alcohol sales.
The issue was discussed at an Enhancing Scottish Football roundtable last December. Maree Todd, the minister for social care, mental wellbeing, and sport, stated that “the door was not closed on the issue.” However, she also emphasized the significant public health concerns associated with alcohol in Scotland.
One key argument from proponents of change is that allowing alcohol sales inside stadiums could reduce the pre-match rush at local pubs, creating a safer and more controlled environment for fans.
Rugby Comparisons and Fan Behaviour
Supporters of lifting the ban point to the contrasting approach taken in Scottish rugby. At Murrayfield Stadium, home to Scotland’s national rugby team, alcohol is sold freely, and fans are permitted to drink in their seats. Advocates say this has not led to the same disorder concerns seen in football.
Calum Beattie, the SPFL’s chief operating officer, suggested that alcohol sales could be allowed at matches categorized as “lower risk” by Police Scotland. He argued that treating all fans the same is “counterproductive” and that the vast majority of supporters can handle responsible drinking.
On the other hand, critics argue that football has an ongoing issue with crowd trouble, including the use of pyrotechnics and a rise in drug-related incidents. One senior football official told BBC Scotland that cocaine use among supporters is a bigger challenge than alcohol, raising questions about where enforcement should be focused.
Balancing Football Culture with Public Health
Scotland has long struggled with alcohol-related public health concerns. The Scottish government has been reluctant to soften restrictions, fearing it could lead to unintended consequences. However, discussions continue between football governing bodies and policymakers, suggesting the issue won’t be going away anytime soon.
Whether or not the alcohol ban will eventually be lifted remains uncertain. But with pressure mounting from football clubs and some politicians, the debate is far from over.
