Newspapers reported that football's 35-year booze ban may be lifted to draw fans back into stadiums this year with proposals to allow supporters to drink in their seats aimed at avoiding unnecessary movement and contact with others.

The Dailymail reported that “discussions are ongoing over allowing supporters back into venues in a safe manner given the threat of coronavirus. Allowing fans to consume alcoholic beverages in their seats is one of the measures under consideration.”

The Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc) Act 1985, was brought in after years of trouble on the terraces and applies to stadiums in England and Wales.  A trial had been considered for Euro 2020 matches due to be held at Hampden Park.

The mail reported that: “The move would be made primarily to avoid the threat of congestion on concourses where fans - banned from boozing in their seats - often gather en masse to consume their drinks.

Sources have disclosed that there is a belief that the ruling, which does not apply to other sports and concerts, is outdated and should be changed. Indeed, some of the nation's clubs who play in more modern facilities already have the technology to see food and drink delivered directly to seats.

The government wants to see fans back inside grounds by October, should it be safe, and the lifting of the rule could be an integral part of their return. Any change may well come in the shape of a trial period.”