Big clubs join WSL trial allowing alcohol in stands

Many of the biggest clubs in the Women's Super League have joined a trial that will allow supporters to drink alcohol in the stands during the 2025-26 season.

Last season's top four - champions Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United - are among the seven WSL clubs who have joined the trial.

It follows an initial trial last term at four clubs in the second tier - rebranded as WSL2 this season - that offered fans the opportunity to consume alcohol while watching the match.

League operator WSL Football said the trial was a success, with 66% of the 51,000 spectators that took part supporting the idea.

Holly Murdoch, the chief operating officer for WSL Football, said the expansion was "part of our strategy to offer a best-in-class experience".

WSL Football said there were no reported safety incidents from last season's trial and that match officials noted 'no change to fan behaviour' during the trial.

While consumption of alcohol within view of the pitch is allowed in the women's professional game, it is banned in men's professional football in the UK.

"We support that process and there's no reason such research couldn't be extended across the men's game too," Football Supporters' Association chair Tom Greatrex said.

"Of course not every supporter wants a pint in the stands - but we don't believe those who do should be criminalised either."

WSL teams: Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, London City Lionesses, Manchester City, Manchester United

WSL2 teams: Birmingham City, Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Newcastle United, Sheffield United, Sunderland, Southampton