Pubs in England and Wales to Stay Open Late for World Cup Match
Pubs and bars in England and Wales will have extended hours on Monday, July 6, allowing them to remain open until 5 a.m. This decision comes after the UK government relaxed licensing rules for England’s crucial FIFA World Cup match against Mexico. Prime Minister Keir Starmer made the announcement on July 2, emphasizing the importance of keeping venues open for fans to enjoy the game till the final whistle.
The match is set to start at 1 a.m. UK time in Mexico City and is expected to bring in large crowds to local pubs, as England continues its World Cup journey.
“Football might be coming home, and we want to make sure fans can enjoy it,” Starmer stated. He highlighted that allowing pubs to stay open until the end of the match is great for supporters and for the venues that connect our communities. “The whole country will be cheering on the team. Come on, England!” he added.
This temporary change eliminates the need for individual pubs and bars to request special permission to serve alcohol past their usual closing times. Instead, the Home Secretary has used legislative powers to extend licensing hours for occasions deemed of significant importance. Similar extensions were previously granted for earlier World Cup matches that started before 10 p.m. UK time.
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The longer hours are expected to benefit the hospitality industry, with many pubs looking forward to a boost in business during this high-stakes match. Normally, each licensed venue would need to file separate applications to stay open late, but this new rule simplifies the process, allowing them to operate until 5 a.m.
The hospitality sector is optimistic about this change, believing it will serve both fans and businesses effectively. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, expressed excitement over the decision, stating, “Pubs and fans will be thrilled about this, as the best place to catch the match is in your local pub.”
This decision highlights the significance of England’s World Cup run, continuing a trend of special licensing allowances during major sports events. Officials believe it will enrich the matchday experience for fans and help pubs, which often count on such events for their business.
As England gears up to face Mexico in a must-win Round of 16 match, fans across England and Wales can now relax and enjoy the game in their favorite pubs without worrying about closing time.
