Ticketless entry to football matches now a crime

Entering football matches in England and Wales without a ticket is now a criminal offense, with new legislation coming into effect before the upcoming Carabao Cup final. Those caught attempting to enter without authorization face penalties including fines of up to £1,000 and football banning orders lasting up to five years.

This Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Act was introduced in response to significant disorder at the July 2021 England vs. Italy European Championship final. Thousands of fans forced their way into Wembley Stadium during that event, which Baroness Louise Casey's report indicated could have led to fatalities.

The new law specifically addresses 'tailgating,' where individuals enter stadiums by following ticket holders through turnstiles. It also criminalizes the use of forged tickets, passes, or accreditation documents, as well as impersonating staff to gain entry.

Previously, there were no specific legal penalties for such offenses, with offenders typically being ejected. Policing minister Sarah Jones stated that the police now have the tools to prevent similar incidents from occurring again, emphasizing serious consequences for those endangering others.