Wider licence extensions for pubs during World Cup
Wider Licence Extensions for Pubs During World Cup
The government has introduced a new adjustment to licensing regulations in England and Wales, enabling pubs to extend their operating hours for more matches featuring England or Scotland in the World Cup knockout stages. This update allows fans to continue gathering in local venues for celebrations or reflections after games that start in the evening, regardless of when they are broadcast.
Previously, the Home Office had permitted pubs to stay open beyond normal times for certain matches, especially those with varied kick-off schedules across the tournament. With the latest change, this flexibility now includes matches that begin earlier in the day, such as the first knockout-round games for England or Scotland if they progress from their group stages.
Under the new rules, pubs can remain open until midnight BST for matches starting between 5:00 and 9:00 PM, and until 2:00 AM for those beginning after 9:00 PM. This adjustment applies specifically to three matches in the knockout phase, including England or Scotland’s first round-of-16 game. Licensing laws in Scotland, however, are managed locally, with authorities evaluating their own extensions for venues, particularly for matches like the opening game against Haiti, which is scheduled for a 2:00 AM BST kick-off.
Time Zones and Match Scheduling
The World Cup runs across June in the US, Canada, and Mexico, which are all at least five hours behind the UK. This means some matches, especially early evening ones, will be played at times that align with UK late-night hours, prompting the licensing adjustments.
Despite Wales and Northern Ireland missing out on the knockout stages after losing in the play-off semi-finals, pubs in these nations have still drawn crowds for international fixtures on summer nights. This has proven beneficial for both attendance and revenue in past tournaments.
“If our boys are on the pitch, we want our fans to stay in the pub,” said Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. “So we’re giving pubs and bars an open goal to serve punters long after the last penalty hits the back of the net.”
The extension of pub hours follows a six-week public consultation that began in December. The Home Secretary has the authority to adjust licensing rules for events of exceptional national or local significance, such as major sporting occasions.
Industry leaders have endorsed the move. Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association, described it as a “welcome boost” for the sector, while Emma McClarkin, head of the British Beer and Pub Association, highlighted its role in fostering community spirit and enhancing the summer sports experience.
