Football enthusiasts can now enjoy late-night World Cup games at pubs until 2am, following the Government’s decision to extend opening hours. Previously, fans were granted extra time to watch England and Scotland’s matches with late kick-offs in the tournament held in the US, Mexico, and Canada. This extension now allows bars to open longer for three additional crucial games, potentially totaling 13 matches under the national pub licensing hours extension.

Under the revised regulations, pubs in England and Wales can remain open an extra two hours until 1am for round of 32 and last 16 games scheduled between 5pm and 9pm. For later kick-off games from 9pm to 10pm, last orders will be extended until 2am. This follows the existing provision for matches starting between 8pm and 10pm.

The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, emphasized the importance of keeping fans in the pub during matches involving the national teams. The legal power to extend licensing hours for significant events internationally, nationally, or locally has been exercised, similar to previous extensions for other major tournaments.

In addition to the World Cup, pub licensing hours could be extended for various events to promote communal celebrations. Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, lauded the move, highlighting the role of pubs in fostering community spirit and providing a space for people to unite during national events. Kate Nicholls, chair of UKHospitality, expressed satisfaction with the extended hours for knockout games, benefiting both fans and hospitality businesses.

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association, welcomed the decision as a positive development for the hospitality sector and the night-time economy. Extending hours during key match nights is seen as a means to boost revenue, create job opportunities, and enhance local economies while offering fans safe and vibrant settings to enjoy the tournament’s knockout stages.