Salford City supporters were lifted 50 metres into the sky by a crane to enjoy their team’s match against Chesterfield FC, pint in hand. A select group of lucky football fans were hoisted an impressive 50 metres above ground by crane to watch Saturday’s clash between Salford City FC and Chesterfield FC, all while enjoying a pint.
Fans at Premier League, Championship, League One and League Two matches are forbidden from consuming alcohol ‘in sight of the pitch,’ although they can drink freely in stadium bars. This ban has been in place since 1985 under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol) Act, but many supporters argue that this four-decade-old rule is outdated.
During the 2-0 game against Chesterfield, fortunate Salford City fans were given the unique chance to legally enjoy a drink whilst watching the match, courtesy of a one-off elevated fan zone provided by Fireball Whisky.
The stunt was in response to a survey of 2,000 football fans, which suggested that half of those surveyed believe it’s time to lift the ban on drinking in their seats.
Supporters have criticised the rule as ‘flawed’ (16%), ‘inconvenient’ (22%), and even ‘disruptive’ (12%). What’s more a significant 25% argue that the ban encourages fans to overindulge before kick-off.
Lorenzo Farronato, spokesperson for Fireball, said: “Football fans deserve fun. The rules say no alcohol in view of the pitch – so we gave fans a better view alongside a drink.
“The hottest seat in football soared 50 metres high and delivered 90 minutes of pure mischief.”
The research revealed that a staggering 71% of supporters enjoy a tipple when attending or watching a match, with just 8% avoiding alcohol entirely.
Two-thirds of those polled via OnePoll.com admitted that sharing a pint with friends is an essential part of their matchday experience.
Social media content creators Tom Garratt and Tom Nestor, famous for hunting down football’s most extraordinary experiences, also joined fans aboard the crane, adding this adventure to their list of unforgettable away days.
Tom Garratt said: “The hottest seat isn’t just a stunt; it’s a reminder that football can be fun, inclusive and a bit rebellious. Fans shouldn’t feel like they’re just there to watch; they should feel part of something bigger – part of a community, a culture, and a day to remember.
Tom Nestor added: “Football should be about enjoying yourself; whether that’s singing with your mates, celebrating a goal, or making memories that last.
“Too often the matchday experience has been restricted, when it should be about freedom, fun and connection.”