Wider licence extensions for pubs during World Cup
Expanded Pub Hours for World Cup Matches
The UK government has introduced additional flexibility for pubs during this summer’s World Cup, allowing extended hours for fans of England and Scotland to gather and celebrate or reflect on key matches in the knockout stages. This adjustment follows a decision to broaden licensing rules, enabling venues to stay open later than usual for games with earlier kick-off times, which will now include matches scheduled between 17:00 and 22:00 BST.
Previously, pubs in England and Wales had already been permitted to operate beyond standard hours for matches in the tournament, which spans the US, Canada, and Mexico in June and July. However, the latest update ensures that even earlier evening games—such as the first knockout matches for England and Scotland—will qualify for the extended hours. The change applies specifically to three matches in the knockout rounds: the ones involving England, Scotland, and one additional game in the last 16.
In Scotland, licensing decisions are handled locally, with authorities exploring their own extensions for pubs. This is particularly relevant for the team’s opening match against Haiti, which is set for a 02:00 BST kick-off, challenging traditional operating hours. The tournament begins in June, spread across multiple time zones in the host nations, which are all at least five hours behind the UK.
Industry Support for Extended Hours
“This is a welcome boost for the sector,” said Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association, praising the new policy. Emma McClarkin, head of the British Beer and Pub Association, added that the changes would let people “come together, boost community spirit and enjoy a summer of sport.”
The revised rules stem from a six-week consultation that started in December. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the goal: “If our boys are on the pitch, we want our fans to stay in the pub. So we’re giving pubs and bars an open goal to serve punters long after the last penalty hits the back of the net.” She has the authority to extend opening hours for events of exceptional national or local significance.
Despite Wales and Northern Ireland missing out on knockout stage appearances, pubs in those regions have still benefited from previous World Cup traditions, where summer football matches drew large crowds and boosted revenue. The new licensing adjustments aim to build on that momentum, ensuring fans can engage with the tournament beyond their usual hours.
