The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has criticised the timing of the Government's decision to allow pubs to stay open until 5am for England's World Cup round of 16 match against Mexico. More than 1,000 venues across England are expected to open late for the 1am kick-off on Monday.
In a joint statement, Chief Constable Mark Roberts, NPCC lead for football policing, and Acting Chief Constable Scott Green, NPCC lead for alcohol licensing and harm reduction, said the "late announcement" forced police forces to adapt plans and take officers away from communities. They urged England fans to drink "sensibly" and behave considerately.
Police Concerns Over Alcohol-Related Violence
The statement noted that previous tournaments saw an increase in violent incidents and domestic abuse linked to alcohol consumption during knock-out games. "We also know from previous tournaments the knock-out games sadly see an increase in violent incidents particularly in the night-time economy and an increase in domestic abuse. This is directly linked to alcohol consumption," the statement said.
The NPCC emphasised that their priority is to support safe and responsible enjoyment of the match. "We therefore ask those watching the game to be considerate – drink within sensible limits, and behave in a way that keeps you, your friends, staff, officers and the wider public safe," they added.
Pub Chains Prepare for Late Opening
Greene King confirmed that more than 600 of its pubs across England will stay open late, while Marston's said over 400 of its venues will open. Andrew Gallagher, brand and marketing director at Greene King, said: "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."
Jared Sedgwick, operations director at Marston's, added: "When England are playing, a 1am kick-off is no barrier, and we’ll make sure fans have somewhere great to watch it together in the kind of big match atmosphere that’s hard to replicate at home." He also noted that many fans might "working from home" on Monday morning.
Fuller's reported 23 pubs planning to open late as of Friday morning. Stonegate Group said 610 Craft Union pubs, 182 managed sites, and hundreds of leased and tenanted pubs will open late. However, Wetherspoons said only five of its 800 pubs will open for the match.
Economic Impact and Public Response
The British Beer and Pub Association estimated that up to one million extra pints could be sold during the match. Chief executive Emma McClarkin said: "The timing of the match is unprecedented for the sector so, with more pubs opening, we expect there to be up to a million extra pints sold off the back of the game." She encouraged fans to enjoy the occasion responsibly.
The blanket extension, announced by Sir Keir Starmer on Thursday, applies across England and Wales, meaning individual pubs do not need to apply for extended hours. England advanced to the round of 16 after defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1.
