Pubs across the UK will be allowed to stay open until 2am during the knockout stages of the World Cup, the government has confirmed. The extended licensing hours will apply to matches involving England and other key games, aiming to boost the atmosphere for fans.
The decision follows a request from the British Beer and Pub Association, which argued that later openings would allow supporters to watch matches without rushing. Home Office officials said the move balances public enjoyment with responsible drinking.
Licensing laws normally restrict pub hours to 11pm or midnight, but temporary extensions have been granted for major sporting events in the past. The 2am closure will be in effect for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final.
Police have welcomed the measure but urged fans to drink sensibly. Local authorities will have discretion to refuse extensions if there are concerns about disorder. The government stressed that the change is temporary and will be reviewed after the tournament.
