Overserving and Allowed Entry of Obviously Alcohol-Intoxicated Spectators at Sporting Events

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sports Management
• Alcohol Studies

Background:

• Alcohol intoxication at sporting events is a global concern, often linked to violence.
• There's limited data on overserving and entry of intoxicated spectators at licensed venues within sporting arenas.
• This study addresses the gap in knowledge regarding alcohol service to intoxicated patrons and their arena entry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of overserving alcohol to obviously intoxicated spectators at licensed premises.
• To determine the rate at which obviously intoxicated spectators are allowed entry into sporting arenas.
• To assess intervention rates by staff regarding alcohol service and arena entry.

Main Methods:

• An observational study using trained actors portraying obvious alcohol intoxication (pseudo-patrons).
• Standardized intoxication scenes were developed by experts and monitored by observers.
• The study was conducted at licensed premises and entrances of arenas hosting Swedish Premier Football League matches.

Main Results:

• Denied alcohol service rates were 66.9% outside arenas and 24.9% inside.
• The rate of denied entry to arenas for intoxicated individuals was 10.8%.
• Significant differences in server intervention rates were observed between inside and outside premises.

Conclusions:

• Overserving and allowing intoxicated spectators into arenas are prevalent issues in Sweden.
• These practices likely contribute to high spectator intoxication levels.
• Lack of training in responsible beverage service among arena staff (both serving and entrance) is indicated, highlighting the need for targeted training.