Met Police chief warns against alcohol in football stands

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has voiced strong opposition to proposals that would permit football fans to drink alcohol within stadium stands. Addressing the London Assembly, Sir Mark stated that officers are concerned about a potential rise in violence and drug-related incidents if such changes were implemented.

The current legislation, which bans alcohol consumption within view of the pitch, was introduced in 1985. At the time, then-Home Secretary Leon Brittan suggested that alcohol was a significant contributor to violent and disorderly behaviour at football grounds. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has recently indicated a potential review of these rules, suggesting that the legislation is outdated and that there is a case for removing what he described as discrimination.

Sir Mark Rowley countered these suggestions, telling Assembly Members, "I wish the culture at football matches was the same as it is at other sporting events, it's not." He elaborated, "We still see violence at football matches. We still see challenges. Any step back at loosening the regulations would have to be really carefully thought about. I'm worried about the violence we still see at matches. I'm worried about the drugs we see at matches. So I'd be very cautious about it."

Liberal Democrat Assembly Member Gareth Roberts questioned the Commissioner and the Mayor on the issue. Mr Roberts stated that the Prime Minister should heed the concerns raised by the Metropolitan Police Commissioner regarding lifting the football drinking ban. He added that after years of police funding reductions, the government should not be making the police force's work more difficult.

A Home Office spokesperson confirmed that the government currently has no immediate plans to alter the law preventing alcohol consumption in view of the pitch at designated football matches. The spokesperson added that alcohol controls are kept under review, considering issues and trends related to football disorder.

Cost of Policing Football Matches

The Metropolitan Police Commissioner also discussed the significant costs associated with policing football matches in London. In the 2023/24 season, operations for matches across the capital incurred expenses exceeding £23 million. However, only just over £2 million was reimbursed by the clubs involved, leaving the public purse to cover the majority of the costs.

Sir Mark Rowley indicated that the Metropolitan Police are seeking government intervention to ensure that the costs are fully recovered from those responsible, stating, "I would like to see that fully reimbursed. And I know the government's considering it." The Mayor of London has expressed support for measures that could provide additional resources to London to address this issue.

In October 2025, Policing Minister Sarah Jones acknowledged concerns that the cost of policing football matches falling on the public purse is too high and confirmed that ministers are exploring solutions.