Key facts
- Pubs in England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 5 AM for England's World Cup match against Mexico.
- Police leaders criticized the timing of the decision, citing concerns over officer deployment and potential alcohol-related incidents.
- Over 600 pubs from Greene King are expected to stay open.
- Fifa reversed a decision to move the England vs. Mexico match kick-off time forward by six hours.
- The match will now kick off at 01:00 BST on Monday.
- Some schools and workplaces are adopting flexible approaches for Monday morning due to the late finish.
Pubs across England and Wales will be permitted to remain open until 5 AM to accommodate the early morning World Cup match between England and Mexico. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer intervened to grant the extended licensing hours, a decision that has drawn criticism from police leaders concerned about officer deployment and potential strain on resources due to the late announcement.
Fifa had initially considered moving the match, scheduled for a 01:00 BST kick-off on Monday, six hours earlier due to anticipated thunderstorms in Mexico. However, the governing body reversed this decision, meaning the match will proceed as planned, concluding no earlier than 03:00.
The late announcement has created logistical challenges for businesses and emergency services. While the hospitality sector, including pub chains like Greene King, has welcomed the extended hours, some establishments, such as Wetherspoons, will only open a limited number of venues. The UK Bartender's Guild emphasized the need for proper notice and consideration for hospitality staff working the late shift.
The National Police Chiefs Council highlighted that the late notification required officers to be diverted from other duties. In response to the late finish, some schools are planning to open later on Monday morning, and employers are being encouraged to show flexibility for workers. Motoring organizations have also issued warnings about driving while fatigued after staying up for the match.