Starting in the 2025-2026 season, fans attending Women's Super League (WSL) games at select clubs will be able to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages in their seats. This decision follows a successful pilot program in the second tier, now known as WSL2, during the previous season and reflects a growing movement to enhance the matchday experience for fans.

The initial trial, which took place across four WSL2 clubs (Birmingham City, Bristol City, Newcastle United, and Southampton) during the second half of the 2024-2025 campaign, saw positive results. Over 51,000 supporters attended the 19 fixtures included in the trial, with 66% expressing support for the initiative. Importantly, the trial reported no safety incidents, and match officials observed no changes in fan behavior. Furthermore, a survey showed that 84% of fans felt safe, rating their sense of security between 9 and 10 out of 10. Over three-quarters of supporters also indicated they would recommend games to friends and family.

Given the encouraging results, WSL Football has decided to expand the trial to 14 clubs across the WSL and WSL2 for the upcoming season. Seven WSL teams will participate, including top clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Manchester United. The other participating WSL teams are Everton, Liverpool and London City Lionesses. Joining them from WSL2 are Birmingham City, Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Newcastle United, Sheffield United, Sunderland and Southampton. It is worth noting that the involvement of Chelsea, London City Lionesses, and Newcastle United is subject to imminent Safety Advisory Group (SAG) approval. Each club can decide how many of their matches will be part of the trial and will communicate details about designated areas for alcohol consumption within their grounds. Participating clubs will also have the option to provide designated alcohol-free areas for supporters.

This move distinguishes the women's game from the men's professional leagues in the UK, where the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985 prohibits alcohol consumption within sight of the pitch. The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) has voiced its support for extending research into the possibility of allowing alcohol consumption in the stands at men's games as well.

Holly Murdoch, the Chief Operating Officer for WSL Football, emphasized that this expansion is part of a broader strategy to provide a "best-in-class experience" for fans. She added that WSL Football is excited to explore giving supporters the choice to drink alcohol in the stands and is looking forward to feedback from clubs and supporters.