England's World Cup round of 16 clash against co-hosts Mexico kicks off at 1am UK time on Monday, July 6, leaving millions of fans facing a late night or early morning. However, new research suggests that the vast majority of workers will still be expected at their desks on time, and workplace experts are warning staff not to give themselves a "red card" through unauthorised absences.
Only 20% of Employers Offer Flexible Working
According to a survey of 1,100 managers conducted by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), only one in five employers (20%) plans to offer flexible working arrangements, such as adjusted start or finish times, to help staff accommodate the tournament's awkward timings. The study revealed that only a small minority of businesses are willing to provide alternative workplace perks, including extended breaks during the day, workplace screenings, or additional leave options. For the remaining 80 per cent of the workforce, standard Monday morning expectations will apply, despite the match likely keeping fans awake until at least 3am.
Experts Urge Employers to Show Leniency
The strict stance from most companies has drawn criticism from management experts who argue that rigid schedules could backfire on productivity and morale. Petra Wilton, director of policy at the CMI, has urged business leaders to reconsider their policies, framing late starts as a win-win for both staff and the companies they work for.
"We're not saying every England win deserves a bank holiday, but if millions of people have stayed up until 3am supporting their team, asking employers to let them start a little later the next morning is simply common sense," Wilton stated. "We're saying to employers across the country: 'let them start late'."
The CMI emphasises that accommodating special events fosters a healthier, more dedicated workforce, noting that companies benefit through higher engagement, improved wellbeing, and better overall performance when they offer sensible flexibility.
Acas Guidance: Communicate Before Kick-Off
Workplace expert Acas has also published guidance urging employers and employees to have a "good team line-up" before kick-off to prevent major workplace disruptions. Acas said workers should not simply assume they can turn up late or take time off without prior, approved agreements. Susan McGuigan, Acas Head of Workplace Advice, warned that standard attendance policies remain firmly in place.
"The World Cup is an exciting event for many football fans but staff should avoid getting a red card for unreasonable demands or behaviour in the workplace during this period," McGuigan said.
Key Areas for Employees and Managers
Acas highlighted several critical areas where employees and managers need to communicate before Monday morning:
- Sickness and Lateness: Unauthorised absences, patterns of taking sick days, or showing up late without permission will be investigated and could result in formal disciplinary proceedings.
- Pre-Approved Flexibility: While Acas suggests employers consider flexible options - such as letting staff come in later and making up the time later, or allowing shift swaps - any changes must be approved in advance.
- Holidays: While leave requests should be considered fairly, employers must maintain proper staffing levels to keep businesses productive. Furthermore, managers must ensure rules are applied consistently to all staff, as not everyone follows football.
- Alcohol Policies: With matches kicking off in the early hours, fans may be drinking later than usual. Acas explicitly notes that coming to work under the influence of alcohol remains a serious disciplinary offence, and standard workplace drink policies still apply.
