The UK government has enacted new legislation to tackle unauthorised stadium entry, with the aim of preventing incidents like those seen during the UEFA EURO 2020 final at Wembley Stadium.
Criminal Offence for “Tailgating”
The newly introduced Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Act makes it a criminal offence to enter a stadium without a valid ticket. This includes:
- Tailgating (following a valid ticket holder through turnstiles)
- Using forged tickets or accreditation
- Posing as staff or officials to gain access
Offenders could face:
- Fines of up to £1,000
- Football banning orders of up to 5 years
- A criminal record
Driven by EURO 2020 Lessons
The legislation was heavily influenced by the crowd disorder during the UEFA EURO 2020 final at Wembley, where large-scale tailgating and forced entry raised serious safety concerns.
An independent review led by Louise Casey highlighted the need for stronger legal deterrents, which has now been implemented through this new law.
Immediate Enforcement at Major Fixtures
The law comes into effect ahead of the 2026 Carabao Cup final, featuring top English clubs like Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC.
Stadium officials have warned supporters that strict enforcement will be in place, particularly at high-profile events hosted at Wembley.
Focus on Safety and Matchday Experience
Authorities stress that tailgating is not just a ticketing issue, but a serious safety risk that can lead to overcrowding and potential harm to legitimate fans.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts described the law as a major step forward in improving stadium safety, while Wembley officials emphasised its importance in protecting fans during busy fixture periods.
Looking Ahead
While the law applies across all UK football stadiums, its effectiveness will be closely watched during major upcoming events, including international fixtures and the UEFA EURO 2028 tournament.