Key facts
- Pubs in England and Wales can remain open until 5 a.m. on Monday for England's World Cup match against Mexico.
- The extension was announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
- The match kicks off at 1 a.m. UK time and could finish around 4 a.m.
- The blanket extension means individual pubs do not need to apply for extended hours.
- The changes do not apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- Schoolchildren are permitted to watch the match and still attend school the following day.
Pubs across England and Wales will be permitted to extend their operating hours until 5 a.m. on Monday to broadcast England's World Cup match against Mexico. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the blanket extension, reversing previous indications that licensing hours would not be relaxed for the early morning fixture.
The match, part of the World Cup round of 16, kicks off at 1 a.m. UK time and is expected to conclude around 4 a.m., potentially extending into extra time and penalties. The current law typically limits pub hours to 2 a.m. for such early morning games.
Starmer stated that the extension is beneficial for both fans and the hospitality industry, emphasizing national support for the team. The decision means individual pubs do not need to apply for special licenses, simplifying the process. However, the extension does not extend to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Industry leaders welcomed the move. Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, called it a "pragmatic approach" that supports businesses and community spirit. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, expressed that pubs and fans would be "over the moon."
Separately, the government indicated that schoolchildren would be allowed to watch the match and still attend school the next day, following a suggestion from England's head coach, Thomas Tuchel, who encouraged parents to provide excuses for their children to watch the game.