Pubs win late licence for World Cup celebrations

FootballSports
19 Feb 2026 • 3:55 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

  • UK pubs will be permitted to extend their opening hours until 2am during this summer's football World Cup.
  • The extended hours are conditional on a home nation reaching the knockout stage of the tournament.
  • Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood approved the measure, stating it will allow fans to enjoy later kick-offs without missing the end of games.
  • The extension will typically see pubs open until 1am for most knockout matches, and 2am for those kicking off at 10pm, with provisions for temporary licences for even later finishes.
  • England and Scotland have already qualified for the tournament, which is co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

IN FULL