Many pubs across England and Wales are expected to remain closed for England's World Cup round of 16 match against Mexico, despite the Government granting permission to stay open until 5am. The match kicks off at 1am on Monday, but pub owners cite staffing issues and residential area concerns as reasons for not extending hours.
Government Extension and Pub Response
Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday that pubs in England and Wales could stay open late without needing individual applications. However, a spokesperson for Wetherspoon said only five of its 800 pubs will open for the match. Greene King, which operates 2,600 pubs, restaurants, and hotels, said over 600 of its pubs across England would stay open late to show the game.
Challenges for Local Pubs
Tommy Higgs, co-owner of The Three Horseshoes pub in Witney, Oxfordshire, explained why his establishment will not open. Speaking to LBC, he said: “We’re in a built-up community around here, and I think it’s just a little bit disrespectful for our locals to have that sort of noise at 5am.” He added that staffing was a major issue: “No one’s going to want to work until five in the morning. We’re not a nightclub, we’re a local pub in a small town, and I am not allowed to annoy my neighbours because I’ll be into holy hell with that.” Higgs noted that many staff have second jobs or work part-time, and he would not expect them to work such late hours.
Industry Context
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) reported that the number of pubs in the UK fell from 46,829 in 2020 to 44,656 in 2025, highlighting ongoing challenges for the industry. Andrew Gallagher, brand and marketing director at Greene King, expressed enthusiasm for the extension: “We’re delighted to have been granted permission to stay open late as England progress through the tournament. There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere in our pubs and it gives fans the chance to come together, soak up the occasion and hopefully celebrate!” He urged fans to secure their spots early.
Match Details
England will face Mexico in the last 16 after defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 on Wednesday. The Government's decision to allow late opening was intended to support fans, but many pubs have opted out due to practical constraints.
