Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has stated that parents should be free to decide whether their children stay up to watch England's 1am World Cup match against Mexico on Monday. The comment comes after England manager Thomas Tuchel pleaded for schools to allow children to view the game.
Government Position on Early Morning Kick-Off
The Prime Minister's spokesperson made the remarks when asked if Sir Keir supported Tuchel's call for children to stay up late. "We want everyone to enjoy the game but kids should be in school on Monday," the spokeswoman said. She added that Sir Keir would face the "same dilemma" as other England fans over whether to stay up, noting: "The PM has his usual packed schedule on Monday, so he’ll be facing the same dilemma as everyone else on whether to stay up. Win or lose, I think millions of England supporters will be at work on Monday, and the PM will be doing the same."
Tuchel's Plea and Minister's Plans
Skills minister Baroness Jacqui Smith earlier revealed she planned to take a "disco nap" on Sunday afternoon and then stay up late to watch the match. Tuchel, after Harry Kane's two late goals secured England's passage through the round of 32, made an emotional appeal: "Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. Come on. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big match on in four days and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children."
Impact on Schools and Employers
Schools and employers have often accommodated England games during major tournaments by showing matches during working hours, but Monday’s early-morning kick-off presents a unique challenge. The match against Mexico starts at 1am, posing difficulties for both students and working adults. The government’s stance leaves the decision in the hands of parents, who must weigh the educational implications against the national sporting event.
