The Government has passed new legislation making tailgating, and other forms of unauthorised entry to football matches, a criminal offence.
The Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Act makes any attempt to enter a stadium without a valid ticket a criminal offence, punishable by a fine and a Football Banning Order.
This includes tailgating, where individuals attempt to force their way through stadium turnstiles by closely following legitimate ticket holders. It will also be illegal to knowingly attempt to gain entry using forged tickets, passes or accreditation, or by posing as a member of stadium or playing staff.
Those found guilty of unauthorised entry may face a criminal record, a fine of up to £1,000 and a Football Banning Order for up to five years.
The legislation comes into effect across football on Sunday 22 March, and it will be in place for the 2026 Carabao Cup Final at Wembley Stadium.
Mark Lynch, Stadium Director at Wembley Stadium, said: "Attempts to tailgate or force entry into football stadiums places a huge strain on crowd safety teams and puts legitimate ticket holders at risk of overcrowding or injury.
"We welcome the introduction of the Unauthorised Access to Football Matches Act, which will make tailgating at football matches illegal and subject to Football Banning Orders.
"This new legislation will make football safer for fans with genuine tickets, and we are pleased that it will come into effect ahead of a busy period of football matches at Wembley Stadium."
Chief Constable Mark Roberts QPM said: "We welcome the introduction of this new legislation, which represents another positive step in enhancing the safety of supporters.
"Tailgating is not simply about avoiding ticket costs; unauthorised entry is a serious offence that can lead to overcrowding and pose a risk to the safety of law-abiding fans.
"This change reflects our ongoing commitment to working closely with partners and Government to tackle emerging threats."
Tailgating, or forced entry into a stadium, was identified as a significant problem at the UEFA EURO 2020 Final at Wembley Stadium, which was marred by crowd disorder.
In response to that final, The FA commissioned Baroness Louise Casey to undertake an independent review. Her review recommended strengthening the legal framework to deter football-related disorder, including tailgating and forced entry.
Commenting on the new legislation, Baroness Casey said: "The Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Act represents a significant step forward in improving safety and the matchday experience for fans across the country.
"In my independent review into the disorder surrounding the UEFA EURO 2020 Final, I highlighted the challenges posed by tailgating. I am therefore delighted that this Act has now been passed and will be in force in time for the 2026 Carabao Cup Final at Wembley Stadium.
"I congratulate The FA on the steps they have taken to help drive and support this important legislation."
