Alcohol in stadiums will be tested in England’s women’s second division

The chairman of Women’s Professional Leagues Limited announced on Thursday that two clubs in England’s second division of women’s football would test allowing fans to consume alcohol in the stands during games.

Since 1985, alcohol consumption in the stands of the top five English men’s football leagues has been prohibited in an effort to reduce hooliganism.

The top two divisions of women’s football now follow the same regulation that was first solely applicable to men’s football due to government legislation.

But according to WPLL CEO Nikki Doucet, given the demographics of women’s football supporters, alcohol consumption in the stands might be permitted.

Doucet stated, “We are testing that in a couple of teams in the Championship this season and we will see what we will learn from that,” during the Leaders Week London event, which brought together top executives in international sports worldwide.

“I believe that our fan base behaves differently. It’s about providing our fans with options while being responsible and safe.

Which two clubs will participate in the trials has not yet been decided.

The hooliganism that has historically plagued men’s football has not tarnished women’s football in England.

While Championship clubs play at smaller venues with average attendances of 2,000 or less, many elite Women’s Super League teams occasionally play at men’s stadiums.

In August, the FA relinquished control of the top two divisions of women’s football in England to the autonomous WPLL.

Doucet stated there were no plans to try to change the Saturday 3pm broadcast blackout that is in place in Britain, while looking into methods to maximize exposure for the two divisions.

Being a part of the larger football ecology is complicated. We have common interests in the Premier League and the English Football League (EFL), and we must consider the rationale behind the blackout,” the former director of Nike stated.

“That’s something that will remain for the time being, and the idea of partnership is crucial. Since we share stadiums, the timing of games and broadcasts is crucial to provide the greatest possible service to the supporters.