ENGLAND — WSL Football approved the removal of the rule forbidding alcohol consumption in view of the pitch for the Women's Super League and WSL2 for the 2026-27 season. Under the new regulations, clubs are not required to introduce alcohol sales in the stands.

An initial pilot scheme for alcohol consumption in stands began in the second tier in January 2025. Birmingham City, Bristol City, Newcastle United, and Southampton participated in this initial phase.

The trial expanded across both the Women's Super League and WSL2 divisions before the 2025-26 campaign. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United were among the clubs involved. In total, the trial encompassed 20 clubs, 29 venues, and 190 fixtures, with participating clubs designating specific sections where drinking in the stands was permitted.

WSL Football surveyed more than 4,000 supporters during the trial. The proportion of surveyed supporters who supported giving fans the choice to drink alcohol in the stands rose from 58 percent in summer 2025 to 69 percent after the 2025-26 season. Surveyed supporters continued to rate the atmosphere at matches as safe and family-friendly.

Women's football is not covered by the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985, which prohibits drinking alcohol in view of the pitch in the top five tiers of English men's football. The professional women's leagues separated from the Football Association in 2024. Clubs participating in alcohol sales are expected to communicate the change with supporters. Everton confirmed it would continue to supply alcohol at games. Charlton Athletic confirmed it would continue to supply alcohol at games. The WSL and WSL 2 seasons will begin on the weekend of September 4-6, 2026.