Millions of England fans are preparing for a late night as the World Cup last-16 match against Mexico kicks off at 1am on Monday. With the game potentially extending to penalties, many supporters will not get to bed until 3am or later, leading to a tired workforce the next day. The Government has confirmed it will not declare an extra Bank Holiday, leaving workers to negotiate time off with their employers.
Workers Seek Flexibility from Employers
An estimated 17.8 million fans are expected to stay up to watch the match, according to VoucherCodes. Of these, 14.3 million plan to watch from home, while 3.5 million will head to pubs and hospitality venues benefiting from extended licensing hours. The resulting fatigue has prompted calls for employers to show understanding.
PR firm Ready10 has already set a precedent by allowing staff to start at 10.30am on Monday instead of the usual 9am. Account manager Ozzy Patlar, 25, who was voted employee of the year, used his prize to secure the later start for the entire office. He said: "I knew that the office would love that one. The email went around the office, which was quite funny, the subject line was ‘Wizard of Oz’. I’ve had a lot of texts saying you're a hero, I love you."
England manager Thomas Tuchel has also weighed in, suggesting children should be allowed to stay up to watch the match. He said: "Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. Come on. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch."
Many Workers Consider Calling in Sick
Research by AO.com reveals that more than a quarter of workers are considering taking a sick day to recover from the late-night match. However, experts warn that posting about the game on social media could expose those faking illness. Essential workers in emergency services, healthcare, and retail have no choice but to attend work as usual.
Alex Hall-Chen, principal policy advisor for employment at the Institute of Directors, said: "Not many people will be at their sharpest after an England match that finishes in the middle of the night. Where businesses can accommodate it, a little flexibility on Monday morning could go a long way. Allowing a slightly later start, hybrid working or making use of flexible hours can be a sensible way to boost morale and recognise that major sporting occasions are important moments for many employees."
Legal and Practical Advice for Employers
Employment lawyers have offered guidance for businesses. Helen Watson, senior partner and head of employment law at Aaron & Partners, said: "Balancing business operations with employees’ enthusiasm for the World Cup requires a thoughtful approach." Mark Kaye, employment partner at Mishcon de Reya, added: "Most employers are likely to take a sensible approach, but clear boundaries and expectations should be communicated to the workforce. Inappropriate conduct, such as turning up to work drunk or severely hungover (or missing client meetings) can, and perhaps should, be dealt with under the employer's disciplinary policy. Some employers may proactively invite employees to take their annual leave on the Monday."
Nicole Humphreys, partner at Mayo Wynne Baxter, cautioned: "Not everyone follows football, so employers should avoid perks that only benefit one group unless equivalent flexibility is available to others."
Economic Impact of the Match
VoucherCodes estimates the Mexico game will generate £395 million in sales across pubs, bars, shops, and takeaways. Demand for late-night food and drink deliveries is expected to soar. However, Sophie Michael, head of retail and wholesale at BDO, warned: "The World Cup may provide a welcome catalyst for increased spending in hospitality where growth has been particularly needed, but these events often come at the expense of other discretionary retail sectors, as consumers redirect their purse to leisure spending while watching the games."
Tips for Post-Match Recovery
Fans may struggle to sleep after the final whistle. On average, supporters spend nearly 40 minutes lying awake after the match, according to smartphone and laptop maker Honor. Sleep scientist Dr. Sophie Bostock recommends a "fan cool down" technique: playing relaxing music, gentle stretching for five minutes, and slow breathing for three minutes to help transition to sleep.
