Pubs will be forced to eject customers at half time during England's World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico on Monday, as individual council approvals are needed to stay open beyond the new 2am cut-off, which are not guaranteed. The match kicks off at 1am, meaning only the first half can be shown before pubs must close under standard licensing rules.
Government Licensing Change Allows 2am Closures
The Labour Party government has confirmed a licensing change that allows pubs to close as late as 2am. Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that “red tape should not get in the way of fans enjoying the game with friends and local pubs doing a great trade too.” A government spokesperson told City AM: “As well as relaxing licensing rules so that pubs can serve until 2am for World Cup matches without asking for permission, Secretary of state Steve Reed has written to councils to encourage them to sign off applications for pubs to extend their hours even further for these late games – so that fans can enjoy the football.”
Council Approval Hurdle
Despite the national extension, individual pubs need approval from councils to stay open beyond 2am, and councils are not guaranteed to grant it. This means that for matches kicking off at 1am, such as the England vs Mexico game, pubs may only be allowed to show the first half before closing at half time. England, who overcame DR Congo on Wednesday thanks to a Harry Kane brace, face co-hosts Mexico in their next World Cup game. Thomas Tuchel's men play Mexico in the Round of 16 at 1am on Monday morning.
Hospitality Industry Calls for Simpler Extension
Ros Morgan, chief executive of Heart of London Business Alliance, which represents over 500 firms, said “it makes sense” for the government to show flexibility and allow pubs and bars to remain open for the duration of the match. “The current national licensing extension to 2am is welcome, but it won’t be sufficient for matches kicking off at 1am,” Morgan added. “A simple, one-off extension would give businesses certainty, allow fans to enjoy the occasion safely in licensed venues rather than dispersing early, and help hospitality businesses make the most of a rare economic opportunity.”
