Summary
The UK government has extended the hours pubs can stay open during the World Cup for matches involving England and Scotland. This change means pubs in England and Wales can stay open later during specific knockout matches. The World Cup is happening in the US, Canada, and Mexico this June and July.
Key Facts
- The UK government extended pub hours for World Cup games involving England and Scotland in the knockout stages.
- This decision applies to matches that start between 17:00 and 21:00 BST, with pubs staying open until 01:00 BST.
- For matches starting between 21:00 and 22:00 BST, pubs can remain open until 02:00 BST.
- Alcohol licensing is a devolved issue in Scotland, meaning local authorities can make their own decisions.
- Scotland's opening match against Haiti begins at 02:00 BST, prompting local authorities to consider license extensions.
- Neither Wales nor Northern Ireland qualified for the World Cup.
- The World Cup is hosted across three time zones in the US, Canada, and Mexico, all of which are at least five hours behind the UK.
- Industry leaders have welcomed the extensions, viewing them as beneficial for community engagement and business.
