New legislation targeting tailgating at football matches will make entering stadiums without valid tickets a criminal offence in England and Wales. The law takes effect before the Carabao Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley. Authorities want to avoid a repeat of the Euro 2020 disorder, when thousands forced their way into the stadium and overwhelmed stewards.
Tailgating at Football Matches Now a Criminal Offence
The act introduces football banning orders lasting up to five years and fines reaching £1,000. Lawmakers drafted the legislation after the England–Italy Euro 2020 final exposed major security failures. Investigators found that around 2,000 people entered illegally, including through disabled access gates and emergency exits. The law also targets forged tickets, fake passes and attempts to impersonate staff.
Government Prioritises Supporter Safety
Policing minister Sarah Jones said fans deserve safe environments at major events. She stated that the new rules give police the tools needed to prevent large‑scale breaches. Previously, officers could only pursue fraud‑related charges, which limited enforcement. Last year’s Carabao Cup final saw 69 arrests, most linked to attempts to enter Wembley without tickets.
FA Findings Drove Legislative Change
A Football Association report led by Baroness Louise Casey concluded that the Euro 2020 final could have led to fatalities. The review highlighted weak sanctions for illegal entry and recommended criminalising tailgating. The new act follows those recommendations and aims to strengthen stadium security ahead of Euro 2028, which England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland will co‑host.
Authorities believe the legislation will reduce disorder, protect supporters and restore confidence in matchday safety.
