Millions of British workers are appealing to their employers for leniency on Monday after England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico kicks off at 1am. Fans face a gruelling schedule, with the match not ending until around 3am, or later if it goes to penalties. The Government has confirmed it will not declare an extra Bank Holiday on Monday.
Massive Viewing Figures Expected
Despite the early hour, a huge 17.8 million fans are forecast to stay up to watch the drama unfold. According to VoucherCodes, 14.3 million will watch from home, while another 3.5 million dedicated fans plan to head to pubs and other hospitality venues, taking advantage of extended licensing hours. This heralds a nation of knackered workers the next day, with many nursing sore heads.
Workers Seek Flexibility
Countless workers will now be appealing to their employers to start late on Monday or put in hurried holiday requests. PR firm Ready10 has already agreed for workers to log in at 10.30am instead of the usual 9am start. Account manager Ozzy Patlar, 25, from London, who was previously voted employee of the year, used his prize to pick a perk that the entire office would benefit from. He had been saving his reward for the World Cup. Ozzy 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." He added: "Obviously it's great for all staff, but especially a few people based outside of London. I know one of my co-workers is from Oxford, so he normally gets a 5am train in."
Children Also Affected
England boss Thomas Tuchel suggested kids 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 Considering Calling in Sick
Research by electricals retailer AO.com suggests millions of workers aren’t leaving it to chance, with more than a quarter of people considering throwing a sickie. However, many workers—from emergency staff and carers to shop workers and others—have no choice but to be in as usual.
Expert Advice for Employers
Experts are encouraging employers to show understanding where possible. 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.”
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."
