Scottish football: Ban on alcohol in grounds could be lifted in 2020

The ban on the sale of alcohol at Scottish football grounds could be lifted in 2020, it has been reported.

Police Scotland, the Scottish FA and officials from the Scottish government have reportedly had discussions to explore whether Euro 2020 matches at Hampden in Glasgow could serve as a pilot, according to the BBC.

At present Glasgow is the only one of 12 host cities where fans could not buy a beer in the stadium. Uefa, European football’s governing body, has relaxed its rules on the sale of alcohol during its competitions.

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John Nelms, Dundee FC’s managing director, said: “We’re in the entertainment business and having a beer and watching the match with your mates would be fantastic.

“I know there have been problems in the past but in the modern day, I think it’s much less of an issue.”

Public consultation

Police Scotland said it would be open to discuss change but Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said it needed public consultation to prove there was an appetite for it.

Andrew Niven, appointed by the Scottish Football Association to stage Euro 2020 matches, said he was aware of Uefa giving permission to sell alcohol in stadiums.

He told the BBC: “While we are open to exploring this, further discussions would be required with the Scottish government, Police Scotland and other stakeholders to properly assess the feasibility of legislative change.

The alcohol ban was enforced after a riot at the 1980 Scottish Cup final between Rangers and Celtic. Footballs stadiums are forbidden from serving alcohol – however this does not apply to corporate hospitality zones.

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Government legislation would be needed for any proposed changes to the ban.

A Scottish government spokesman said: “We will continue to discuss these issues with Police Scotland, the Scottish FA and a wide range of other organisations to ensure our national game is safe and enjoyable for all.”