Euro 2024 Sober? Here’s How You Can Do It
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How can sober, sober curious, or people in recovery experience Euro 2024 without alcohol?
According to a YouGov poll, 44% of UK adults consider alcohol to be a big part of watching football. However, there is a growing cultural shift towards sobriety, with around 28% of young adults choosing not to drink alcohol at all.
With Euro 2024 approaching, many fans might wonder how they can fully enjoy the tournament without alcohol, whether they’re attending the matches in person, watching from home, or joining friends at pubs.
Lindsay Richerson, recovery health expert and Executive Director at Lantana Recovery, offers practical tips and insights on how to enjoy the matches sober:
- Prepare and Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages
If you’re attending a public viewing or an event where alcohol is present, plan ahead by bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages. This ensures you have your preferred drinks on hand and reduces the temptation to consume alcohol. Pack a cooler with a variety of refreshing options like flavored sparkling waters, non-alcoholic beers, or homemade mocktails. For the England-Serbia match, alcohol is prohibited inside the stadium, making it easier to stay alcohol-free once you’re inside. - Join Sober Support Groups
Engage with local or online sober support groups who share your interest in football. Watching the match together can build a sense of community and accountability. It’s a great way to share experiences, tips, and support each other in staying sober during the tournament. For live matches, look for sober meetups or fan clubs that organize group outings to games. - Explore Alternative Venues
If you usually find yourself at a pub to watch the match, try exploring alternative venues. Many cities have public viewing zones, outdoor screenings, and fan zones that create a vibrant atmosphere. Being in an open outdoor space can make you feel less confined and provide more options for non-alcoholic activities. Hosting your own Euros night for the big England games can also be an exciting alternative, offering you control over the environment and the opportunity to create a unique, festive experience. - Incorporate Active Breaks
Use the halftime and other breaks to engage in light physical activities. These could include taking a short walk around the stadium, doing some stretching exercises at home, or practicing deep breathing techniques. Physical activity can help keep your energy levels up and reduce the desire to consume alcohol by distracting your mind and body. If you’re watching from home, consider organizing a mini sports activity with your friends or family during the breaks to keep the energy flowing. - Engage in Mindful Practices
Incorporate mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or even light exercise before and during the match. These activities can help you stay grounded, reduce stress, and enhance your overall enjoyment of the game. Being mindful allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without the distraction of alcohol. During live matches, take a few moments to soak in the atmosphere, focus on the sights and sounds, and appreciate the live action on the field.
Lindsay Richerson adds:
“Being sober, sober curious, or someone in recovery doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of Euro 2024. In fact, by choosing to celebrate without alcohol, fans can enhance their experience and contribute to a healthier, more inclusive community atmosphere, no matter when or where.”
“Embracing sobriety during the tournament allows fans to enjoy the game while promoting respect and well-being fully. It’s a fantastic opportunity to cut back on alcohol and see how enjoyable celebrating can be without it.”
With Euro 2024 fast approaching, Lindsay Richerson’s insights on enjoying the tournament sober are timely and essential.
