Rejected petition Modernise Matchdays: Allow Alcohol in the Stands at Cymru League Games

We call on the Senedd to urge the FAW to allow responsible alcohol consumption in the stands at Cymru League games. English non-league fans can drink pitchside — why not in Wales? This small change could boost attendances, support local clubs financially, and create a more social matchday atmosphere. With proper licensing and safeguards, fans can be trusted just like in other sports.

More details

Cymru Premier matches average just 379 spectators per game, with some clubs regularly attracting fewer than 250. In contrast, England’s sixth-tier National League North averages over 1,200. At that level, clubs are permitted to allow responsible alcohol consumption in the stands — helping to create a more social atmosphere and boost attendance. In Wales, this is still banned due to FAW policy, not law. English non-league clubs report 15–30% of matchday income comes from bar sales. Allowing alcohol in stands could help Welsh clubs grow sustainably and attract new, younger fans.

Why was this petition rejected?

It’s about something that the Senedd or Welsh Government is not responsible for.

As you note, this is an FAW policy, not a Welsh Government law. This is a matter for the FAW.

We only reject petitions that don’t meet the petition standards

Rejected petitions are published in the language in which they were submitted