Wider licence extensions for pubs during World Cup
Extended Pub Hours for England and Scotland World Cup Matches
The UK government has expanded pub operating hours for fans of England and Scotland during this summer’s World Cup, allowing them to continue celebrating or reflecting on key matches in the knockout stages. This adjustment follows a further update to licensing rules, which now extends the window for late-night gatherings even for games kicking off earlier in the evening.
Previously, the Home Office permitted pubs to stay open beyond regular hours for matches with varied kick-off times across the US, Canada, and Mexico-hosted tournament. The latest revision broadens this policy to include matches scheduled between 17:00 and 22:00 BST, ensuring fans can remain in their local venues longer. This change specifically targets England and Scotland’s potential knockout fixtures, which could see early evening games in the tournament’s early stages.
For matches beginning between 17:00 and 21:00 BST, pubs will be allowed to operate until 01:00. Those starting from 21:00 to 22:00 will have an even later cutoff at 02:00. Scotland’s licensing rules, however, are managed by local authorities, who are independently assessing extensions for their own venues. This includes accommodating the country’s opening match against Haiti, set for a 02:00 BST kick-off.
The World Cup, starting in June, spans multiple time zones, with host nations at least five hours behind the UK. This means early evening games in the knockout stages may occur at unusual times for UK audiences. Despite Wales and Northern Ireland missing out on qualification, pubs in these regions have still seen benefits from summer football events, drawing crowds and boosting sales.
Industry Response to Licensing Changes
Industry leaders have praised the new policy, calling it a positive step for the pub sector. Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association, described the extension as a “welcome boost” for late-night businesses. Emma McClarkin, head of the British Beer and Pub Association, added that the change would help fans “come together, boost community spirit and enjoy a summer of sport.”
The revised rules stem from a six-week consultation that began in December. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the importance of supporting fans, stating:
“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.”
This authority allows the Home Secretary to extend opening hours on occasions of exceptional international, national, or local significance, such as major football events.
