A Midlands pub has banned all football shirts from the premises during the World Cup. The Jug, located in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, made the decision amid what it described as 'an increased risk of disorder, tension, and avoidable incidents'.
No Football Shirts Allowed
In a detailed Facebook post, the pub clarified that it is not a sports bar and will not be showing any World Cup matches. The ban applies to all football shirts, including England colours, and will remain in place until the tournament concludes.
The statement read: 'Important notice during the football tournament. We want to be clear and upfront with everyone: We are not a sports bar, and we will not be showing the football during the tournament.'
'We absolutely wish all of the home nations and supporters well, and we hope everyone enjoys the tournament safely and respectfully. However, from experience across the licensed trade and from national policing figures, football fixtures can unfortunately bring an increased risk of disorder, tension, and avoidable incidents.'
Prioritising Safety
The pub emphasised that the decision was made to prevent problems before they occur, not out of opposition to football or its supporters. 'Because of this, we have made the difficult decision that football shirts, national team tops, club tops, and other football colours will not be permitted inside the pub until after the tournament. This applies to everyone equally, regardless of which team or country you support.'
'Our priority is to keep the pub relaxed, welcoming, and safe for all customers and staff. We know this may disappoint some people, but we hope you understand that this decision has been made to prevent problems before they happen, not because we are against football or against any supporters.'
Clarification
An additional comment added: 'Edit; Comments have been disabled, it is an advisory post and doesn't need responses.... We have nothing against football or their fans, but we are a football free zone whilst the world cup is happening. If you want live music, or a football free zone, you know where we are ... If you still feel offended at this post please read it again.'
