Pub customers in England face being 'kicked out' under a July rule change that could see thousands of venues turf out England fans before full-time during FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. The Labour Party government has allowed pubs to open as late as 2am for Home Nations knockout games, but a quirk in the new licensing rules means many pubs may have to close early on Sundays.
Sunday licensing restrictions
The games could kick off at 8pm UK time on Sunday July 19, while the dispensation applies only to pubs which have an 11pm Sunday licence. According to analysis by the Night Time Industries Association, an estimated 3,800 pubs only have licences running until 10.30pm. With water breaks and a planned half-time show, it is feared supporters will be turfed out before full-time. If the matches go to penalties or extra time, fans face being shown the door an hour before the scheduled finish.
Industry reaction
NTIA boss Michael Kill said: “It would be unacceptable for thousands of pubs and their customers to miss out on these opportunities because of a drafting technicality that was both foreseeable and avoidable.” Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “Pubs are counting on the World Cup to give them a much needed boost, and fans and communities will be hoping they can gather at their local for a brilliant atmosphere.” Lawson Mountstevens, managing director of Star Pubs, said: “If there’s a home nation in the mix for the final, we’d urge the Government in the strongest terms to introduce an extension covering ALL licensed venues.”
Possible solution and criticism
The only way to sidestep the ruling would be to apply for a Temporary Event Notice licence (TEN) which costs £21. Megan Sim, manager of The Dolphin, in Newport Pagnell, said: “It’s a slap in the face. We were under the impression that the rules were for every pub.” Steve Haslam, owner of the Bread and Cheese in South Benfleet, Essex, said: “Even if England were to win it, they will have played for less than 14 hours in total, which is not that much of a disturbance.”
Government response
A Home Office spokesperson said: “Extending pub opening hours for the World Cup will bring communities and fans together at a moment of national significance. Pubs with a closing time earlier than 11pm can apply for a Temporary Event Notice.” The shake-up to the rules was championed by Shabana Mahmood, Birmingham MP, as an example of the government 'slashing red tape'.
