Hibs owner doesn’t understand alcohol ban
HIBS owner Ron Gordon has branded the alcohol ban in Scottish football as ‘discriminatory’ and insists it would have been challenged in the courts had they been in America.
Gordon has made it one of his priorities to enhance the matchday experience for supporters and is keen to see fans being able to enjoy a drink at games.
The US-based businessman has also pointed out that rugby fans are allowed to enjoy a tipple at matches.
The ban of drinking was imposed following rioting at the 1980 Scottish Cup final between Rangers and Celtic after the Parkhead outfit lifted the trophy. An exemption is in place for corporate hospitality areas.
A fan-led review of the ban south of the border, which has been in place since 1985, could see the return of fans enjoying a drink while in their seats and Gordon wants the restrictions to be eased in Scottish football.
Gordon, whose team are part of the five clubs who have commissioned Deloitte to look at ways of almost doubling the money the SPFL distributes to clubs, said: “It’s a bit of a hurdle. The alcohol ban feels like a bit of a throwback to a different time.
“I don’t really understand it. Certainly in the United States there would have been a class action suit already because it is just discriminatory.
“I think everybody is mature enough, the clubs are responsible enough, to be able to manage it.
“I’d love the government to give football a chance. I have, in principle, a problem with rugby being okay, and football being wrong.
“It’s discriminatory, it’s just not right.”