Hundreds of pubs across England are expected to remain closed for the national team's World Cup round of 16 match against Mexico on Monday, despite the Government granting permission for extended opening hours until 5am. The match kicks off at 1am, prompting Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to announce on Thursday that pubs in England and Wales could stay open late without needing individual applications. However, many pub owners have cited difficulties in arranging staff and concerns about disturbing residents in residential areas as reasons for staying shut.
Wetherspoons and Greene King Take Different Approaches
A spokesperson for Wetherspoons confirmed that only five of its 800 pubs across the UK will open for the match. In contrast, Greene King, which operates 2,600 pubs, restaurants, and hotels nationwide, said over 600 of its venues would stay open late to show the game. Andrew Gallagher, brand and marketing director at Greene King, expressed enthusiasm: '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! We know this will be a popular match, so urge guests to secure their spot as soon as possible.'
Local Pub Owners Voice Concerns
Tommy Higgs, co-owner of The Three Horseshoes pub in Witney, Oxfordshire, explained his decision to remain closed. 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. 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.'
Declining Pub Numbers
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) reported earlier this year that the number of pubs in the UK has fallen from 46,829 in 2020 to 44,656 in 2025, a decline of over 2,000. The sector continues to face challenges from rising costs and changing consumer habits.
England's World Cup Progress
England secured their place in the last 16 by defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 on Wednesday. They now face Mexico in a match that has generated significant fan interest, though many will have to watch from home or at the limited number of pubs opening for the early-morning kickoff.
