Leeds United dismisses alcohol ban claims

Leeds United has rubbished newspaper reports that the football club was considering bringing in an alcohol ban at its Elland Road ground.

The club issued a statement making its position clear after a report that Leeds director, Salem Patel, had proposed an alcohol ban to reflect the Muslim beliefs of owners GFH Capital, the Dubai-based subsidiary of a Bahraini Islamic investment bank.

However, Leeds managing director David Haigh said that was not the case and reassured fans they will still be able to enjoy a match day pint at the ground.

He said: “The board has never discussed banning alcohol and has no plans to change the current licensing arrangements at Elland Road.

“Enjoying a pint before and after watching the match is a time-honoured Yorkshire tradition as indeed it is among many British football fans.

“Equally the club will continue to offer a selection of wines and other alcoholic drinks to our corporate guests.”

Last month Leeds agreed a six-year deal with Heineken to supply beer, lager and cider to the stadium. As part of the new agreement Heineken has invested £250,000 in equipment in Elland Road’s bars to speed up service.