It is the board of the Norwegian Football Association (NFF) that has decided to open for alcohol serving in the country's football arenas. The change means that it will be up to the municipalities in the future to decide whether to serve alcohol to the common supporter in connection with the match.
Until now, the clubs have only been allowed to serve beer and wine in VIP areas.
- This is not a huge change we are making. It's about changing the rules according to practice. It is not about alcohol at the booth, it is still absolutely forbidden, but that alcohol is allowed at the facilities, says General Secretary Pål Bjerketvedt to NTB.
"Getting furious"He points out that clubs like Viking and Mjøndalen already have alcohol in their arenas.
It was VG who first reported on what the Secretary-General calls "more a change of statutes than practices".
The Christian People's Party received the news with anger.
- I get furious when I hear about the NFF's decision, says the parliamentary representative and member of the family and cultural committee, Jorunn Lossius, to NTB.
"Don't belong there"- Alcohol does not belong in sports arenas, NFF has a responsibility to create good and safe arenas for children and young people, where everyone can participate in the sports fun. I hope they are willing to re-evaluate the whole decision, continues Lossius, who calls it all "a step in the completely wrong direction".
- This completely violates the fine and safe culture we have in Norway. One of the things we are proud of is that we have alcohol-free zones - especially where children and young people move.
Secretary-General Bjerketvedt emphasizes that the NFF's decision does not mean open cranes in the country's football arenas. He is also clear that the decision was made entirely in agreement with the Federal Board.
The change will take effect in the coming season.