Football
Can fans drink alcohol at Euro 2024 stadiums? England warned about beer strength
British football fans travelling to Euro 2024 this summer will relish Germany’s love of beer.
England supporters largely remained sober for the 2022 World Cup in strict Qatar but are now back in a familiar European setting.
However, the Foreign Office have warned England and Scotland fans that beer in Germany can be stronger than pints in the UK.
“Beer can be stronger than in the UK, so drink responsibly, know your limits and respect local laws,” it said.
“You may not be let into the stadium if you drink too much.”
Can fans drink beer at stadiums?
Germany supporters typically are permitted to consume alcohol in their seats at matches, a practice banned in the UK.
This saw Jamie Carragher join Borussia Dortmund fans in downing lager for the club’s 1-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain at the Signal Iduna Park in May.
However, alcohol bans have been introduced for certain Bundesliga matches that are viewed as high-risk so a similar practice will be expected in some Euro 2024 games.
It is yet to be confirmed whether England fans will be served at the Veltins Arena for the Three Lions’ opening game against Serbia.
Bitburger beers are one of the main sponsors of Euro 2024 and will be available exclusively in all stadiums.
The German brewer will also be sold in the official fan zones and events in the host cities.
Bitburger is about 4.8 per cent Alcohol By Volume in strength, which is more than the 4.4 for the average lager and ale in the UK.
What are the prices?
England’s opening game against Serbia takes place in Gelsenkirchen, where a beer at a restaurant or pub is expected to be between £3-£4.
Frankfurt, the host city for the Three Lions’ next stop, has similar prices before fans can enjoy a slight price cut in Cologne.
An imported beer at a restaurant in England’s third group-stage game could be as cheap as £2.50, with table wine at £5.98.
A disclaimer for fans is that while alcohol may be cheaper in supermarkets, the prices are likely to be ramped up inside stadiums.