A study conducted by health and behavior experts at the University of Stirling has revealed that drug use at football matches has surpassed alcohol consumption as a major safety concern. The research, published in the journal Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy, explored the relationship between football fans and alcohol, and found that cocaine use among supporters has increased significantly. Participants in the study, including football supporters, police representatives, government advisors, and safety organizations, all recognized cocaine as a more influential factor in matchday violence and antisocial behavior compared to alcohol.
Dr. Richard Purves, Principal Investigator on the project, expressed concerns regarding the growing drug culture among football fans. The combination of cocaine and alcohol was identified as a particularly potent mix, enhancing intoxicated and hedonic experiences on matchday. The research highlighted the need for further investigation to fully understand the extent and impact of drug use on fans’ behavior in football and other sports, and the potential implications for alcohol regulations within the game.
The study also examined the current legislation surrounding alcohol consumption at football matches. In England, supporters are allowed to purchase alcohol at stadia but cannot consume it within view of the pitch, while in Scotland, the general sale of alcohol is prohibited, except in hospitality settings. Participants in the study argued that football supporters were more restricted compared to supporters of other sports, leading to a perception that excessive drinking and violence are synonymous with football fans. However, they believed that this view was outdated.
Current legislation
Under the current legislation, football supporters in England are permitted to purchase alcohol at stadia—but it cannot be consumed within view of the pitch, while in Scotland, the general sale of alcohol is prohibited, other than in hospitality settings.
Those taking part in the study believed football supporters are perceived differently in comparison with supporters of other sports, arguing that legislation surrounding alcohol consumption at other sports allowed supporters to enhance a carnivalesque environment by drinking alcohol, whereas football fans were more restricted.
Participants also agreed excessive drinking and violence associated with football supporters led to a bad reputation, however, they believed that this view was outdated.
More information:
Comille Tapiwa Bandura et al, Alcohol consumption among UK football supporters: Investigating the contested field of the football carnivalesque, Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy (2023). DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2023.2219370
Citation:
Research finds ‘extensive’ drug culture in UK football (2023, June 23)
retrieved 24 June 2023
from https://phys.org/news/2023-06-extensive-drug-culture-uk-football.html
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Shambhu Kumar is a science communicator, making complex scientific topics accessible to all. His articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge research.
