Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that pubs across England will be permitted to stay open beyond standard hours to screen the World Cup quarter-final match between England and Mexico. The decision, announced on Thursday, aims to support hospitality venues and allow fans to watch the highly anticipated fixture together.
Extended Licensing Hours Granted
The government has granted a temporary extension to licensing hours, enabling pubs to remain open until 1 a.m. on the night of the match. The game, scheduled for July 10, kicks off at 10 p.m. BST, meaning regular closing times would have forced many venues to turn off their screens before the final whistle. According to the Home Office, the extension applies to all licensed premises in England and Wales that choose to participate.
Boost for Hospitality Sector
Starmer said the move would provide a much-needed boost to the hospitality industry, which has faced rising costs and staffing challenges. "This is a great opportunity for communities to come together and support the England team," he said. "We want to make sure pubs can play their part in what promises to be a memorable evening." The British Beer and Pub Association estimates that an extra 10 million pints could be sold during the extended hours, generating approximately £40 million in revenue for pubs.
Fan and Industry Reaction
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, welcomed the announcement. "This is fantastic news for pubs and fans alike," she said. "It gives venues the certainty they need to plan for a big night and ensures supporters can enjoy the match in a safe, supervised environment." However, some publicans have expressed concerns about staffing the extended hours, with many already struggling to recruit workers. The government has urged local authorities to be flexible with any licensing applications.
Security and Policing Plans
Police forces have been briefed on the extended hours and will deploy additional officers in town centers and near stadium fan zones. The National Police Chiefs' Council said it supports the decision, noting that well-managed pub screenings reduce the risk of large, unlicensed gatherings. Assistant Chief Constable Mark Roberts said, "We want everyone to enjoy the match responsibly. Pubs provide a controlled environment, and we will work with licensees to ensure public safety."
Comparison to Previous Tournaments
The extension mirrors measures taken during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when pubs were allowed to stay open for England's late-kickoff matches. However, this is the first time a Labour government has used emergency licensing powers for a sporting event. Critics have questioned the timing, given ongoing cost-of-living pressures, but Starmer defended the decision as a celebration of national pride and a lifeline for struggling pubs.
What Fans Need to Know
Fans are advised to check with their local pub in advance, as not all venues will stay open. The extension is voluntary, and individual licensees must decide whether to participate. Pubs that choose to open late must still adhere to noise and nuisance regulations. The government has also reminded fans to plan their travel ahead, as public transport may not run extended services in all areas.
