England pubs allowed to stay open until 5am for Mexico World Cup clash

Football fans across England and Wales will be able to cheer on the Three Lions until the final whistle after the UK government announced pubs can remain open until 5am on Monday for England’s FIFA World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico.

The late-night licensing extension follows a government U-turn, allowing supporters to watch the match in pubs without venues needing to apply individually for extended trading hours.

As highlighted by the BBC, the fixture kicks off at 1am UK time in Mexico City and is expected to finish after 3am, prompting calls for more flexible licensing arrangements.

The move comes after England booked their place in the knockout stages with a dramatic 2-1 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo, setting up a daunting encounter with Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

The Three Lions captain Harry Kane’s second-half brace helped steer England away from an early World Cup exit.

Government reverses decision

The government had initially ruled out further changes to licensing laws beyond those already introduced for the tournament.

However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starm announced on Thursday that pubs would be allowed to remain open until the match concludes.

‘Football might be coming home but we’re making sure fans don’t have to.’

He added that the decision was good news for both supporters and the hospitality industry.

The Prime Minister’s office said the temporary extension would provide a welcome boost to pubs, bars and communities gathering to watch the knockout fixture.

The announcement was quickly welcomed by hospitality leaders, who said local pubs remain one of the best places for supporters to experience major sporting events together.

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: ‘We all know the best place to watch the match is down the local.’

Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, described the decision as “fantastic news” that would be warmly received by venue operators.

Authorities have also urged fans celebrating into the early hours to plan responsibly.

Motoring organisation RAC warned that a combination of alcohol, fatigue and high weekend temperatures could increase the risk of crashes, encouraging motorists to wait until they are fully rested and hydrated before getting behind the wheel.

Meanwhile, employers have been advised to communicate clearly with staff regarding any workplace flexibility following the overnight fixture, noting that businesses are not obliged to make special arrangements for employees.

Tuchel backs young fans watching history

England manager Thomas Tuchel also joined the conversation, encouraging parents to consider letting children stay up for the occasion despite it falling on a school night.

“Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch… we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children.”

The Prime Minister’s office, however, maintained that children should still attend school on Monday, adding that Starmer himself faces the same decision over whether to stay awake for the highly anticipated encounter.

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Source: BBC