Six Dudley pubs will not be allowed to open for England's World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico, which kicks off at 1am on Monday (July 6). The pubs were denied a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) licence after West Midlands Police expressed concerns about potential crime and disorder.
Police concerns lead to licence refusals
Dudley Council confirmed that 40 TEN licences have been issued for the early-morning match. However, six applications were not granted after police submitted counter notices, arguing that the premises would not be able to uphold the prevention of crime and disorder licensing objective. The affected pubs were not named.
A spokesperson for Dudley Council said: “For the game Monday morning, 40 temporary event notices have been issued, by Dudley Council. Six were not issued after West Midlands Police issued counter notices following concerns that the premises would not be able to uphold the prevention of crime and disorder licensing objective.”
Disorder at other venues during World Cup
West Midlands Police noted that several pubs across the region, including in Great Barr and Bartley Green, have experienced disorder during the 2026 World Cup. This prompted heightened scrutiny of late-night licences for the 1am fixture.
Late applications rejected
Any pubs applying for a TEN licence on Thursday (July 2) or later will be rejected, as legislation does not allow sufficient time for a notice to be processed before the match. The council spokesperson added: “There have been a lot of inquiries today from premises also wishing to open, but haven’t yet applied. The legislation does not give sufficient time now for a temporary event notice to be issued, therefore anyone applying or inquiring now is being told that they cannot open after their usual licensed hours on Monday morning.”
Government considers extending pub hours
Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly considering steps to allow all pubs to stay open later for the England match. Local Government Secretary Steve Reed has urged councils to approve extended hours. Sir Keir is understood to be exploring options to permit nationwide late-night opening, though currently the decision rests with individual councils.
England advanced to the Round of 16 after defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 on Wednesday. The match against Mexico will be a crucial test as the team seeks to progress further in the tournament.
