From the 22 March 2026, entering a football stadium in England or Wales without a valid ticket is now a criminal offence, following the introduction of the Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Act.
This new legislation was prompted by the serious crowd disorder seen at the Euro 2020 Final, where thousands of ticketless fans forced entry into Wembley, creating significant safety risks. The government’s aim is to strengthen stadium safety and deter those who attempt to bypass security measures.
What counts as “tailgating”?
“Tailgating” refers to individuals trying to slip in closely behind legitimate ticket holders at turnstiles to gain entry without paying. This practice puts both staff and genuine supporters at risk, particularly at sell-out fixtures.
Penalties
Anyone convicted under the new offence faces:
- A fine of up to £1,000
- A Football Banning Order of up to five years
The Act also criminalises attempts to enter using forged tickets, accreditation, or by posing as staff.
What Is a Football Banning Order?
A Football Banning Order (‘FBO’) is a court order designed to prevent individuals involved in football‑related disorder from attending regulated football matches in England and Wales. An FBO prohibits the person from attending football games for a set period – typically between three and ten years, depending on the seriousness of the offence and whether a custodial sentence was imposed.
FBOs can be imposed:
- On conviction for a “relevant offence” linked to football, such as violence, disorder, alcohol‑related misconduct, or entering a ground unlawfully.
- By a standalone application from the police or CPS, even without a criminal conviction, where the court is satisfied that the individual has contributed to football‑related disorder.
What restrictions can an FBO include?
Common conditions include:
- A ban on attending regulated football matches.
- Passport surrender during international fixtures or tournaments.
- Restrictions preventing entry to certain areas around stadiums before and after matches.
- Requirements to report to a police station during specified games.
Breaching an FBO is a criminal offence punishable by up to six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
Why now?
The law follows recommendations from Baroness Louise Casey’s independent review, which highlighted the risks posed by tailgating and the prior lack of effective penalties.
What this means for fans
For the vast majority of supporters, nothing changes other than enhanced safety and smoother matchday experiences. But for anyone considering chancing it at the turnstiles, the message is clear that unauthorised entry will no longer be treated lightly.
First Charge Under the New Offence
The first charge under the new legislation was brought within hours of the law coming into force. A 27‑year‑old man from Oldham was arrested at Wembley during the Carabao Cup Final on 22 March 2026 after allegedly entering the stadium without a valid ticket. He has been charged with tailgating and is due to appear at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on 1 May 2026. This early enforcement demonstrates the authorities’ intention to apply the new offence robustly from the outset.
Get In Touch
Rachel Mason is a Solicitor in the Crime and Regulatory department. She provides legal advice for both Magistrates’ and Crown Courts cases, and is instructed on a variety of matters at all stages of criminal proceedings, including offences against the person, sexual offences and animal welfare offences. She represents clients in the police station and Magistrates’ court and is frequently instructed at the pre-charge stage of an investigation..
If you would like to speak with Rachel or another member of our Crime and Regulatory team about the above subject, please call 03300 299 419 or complete our online contact form.
