England's crucial World Cup last-16 match against Mexico kicks off at 1am UK time on Monday, leaving many fans wondering if pubs will be open to watch the game. The match, taking place at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, falls outside standard licensing hours for bars and pubs across the UK.
Government Confirms No Blanket Extension
Business and trade minister Kate Dearden confirmed on Thursday that pubs will not be allowed to open without a licensing extension for the England vs Mexico clash. The Home Office had introduced new licensing rules for knockout matches, dubbed "an open goal" for the hospitality industry, but these only apply to matches kicking off up to 10pm. Since the England match starts at 1am, the blanket rule does not apply.
Despite calls from fans for a bank holiday or extended licensing hours, the government has not agreed to either. However, reports suggest the Prime Minister is considering a U-turn. BBC News understands that the government is now reviewing its decision, so things could change.
How Pubs Can Stay Open
Even without a blanket extension, individual pubs can apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) to bypass licensing laws for major events. The notice must be submitted well in advance, but emergency applications can be made as late as five days before the event. Many pubs that anticipated England's progress have already applied and received event notices.
Local Government Secretary Steve Reed has written to councils encouraging them to approve such applications. In a video on X, Reed said, "There are still some councils that are saying no to the pubs, and my message to those councils is please say yes."
Pubs and Venues Confirmed Open
Several venues have already announced extended hours for the match. These include The Falcon in Clapham, the Leather Bottle in Earlsfield, the Sun in Clapham, The Hope & Anchor in Brixton, the Hawkins Forge in Battersea, the Crooked Billet in Clapton, The Devonshire in Balham, The Star By Liverpool Street, and Victoria Taps in Westminster. Fan zones like Boxpark will also stay open for the game.
More venues are expected to confirm their opening times as Sunday night approaches. Fans are advised to check local listings and the Standard's list of pubs with big screens for World Cup matches.
