Greater Manchester Police have issued a message to football fans as pubs prepare to stay open late for England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico. The game kicks off at 1am on Monday, July 6, at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
Government Allows Extended Hours
After initial uncertainty, the Government confirmed on Thursday, July 2, that pubs could remain open until 5am to allow fans to watch the crucial match. The late kick-off time, due to the venue in Mexico City, fell outside the originally permitted extended hours for pubs.
Rumours that FIFA might move the kick-off to 7pm on Sunday night proved unfounded, and the match will proceed at 1am on Monday morning.
Police Message to Fans
With over 80 venues expected to open their doors, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have urged fans to enjoy the occasion responsibly. A GMP spokesperson said: "As England progress through the tournament, we understand that public interest will continue to grow, with more people coming together to enjoy the occasion."
"In Greater Manchester, we already have plans in place to help keep people safe, and policing the match will be no different to how we police a typical busy Saturday night."
The spokesperson added: "Across England's four matches so far, we have only seen a very small number of incidents at licensed premises, which is encouraging and reflects the responsible way that the vast majority of supporters have enjoyed the tournament."
"Many of the venues expected to show the match already hold the necessary licences and have experience of managing large numbers of customers during major sporting events. As a result, we do not anticipate any significant additional policing challenges."
National Policing Perspective
A spokesperson for the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) also commented: "We recognise there will be significant public interest in England’s match on Monday morning and that many of the public will want to come together in pubs and licensed venues to enjoy the occasion."
"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 NPCC spokesperson noted that the late announcement of extended hours has forced police to adapt plans, with officers working extended shifts that take them away from communities. They urged fans to drink within sensible limits and behave considerately to keep everyone safe.
