Major motorways and railway stations across Britain were eerily quiet this morning as millions of England fans chose to stay home or skip work after the Three Lions' dramatic 3-2 World Cup victory over Mexico. The match, originally scheduled to kick off at 1am UK time, was delayed by an hour due to severe thunderstorms, with the final whistle not blowing until shortly after 4am. The late finish left supporters with just a few hours of sleep before the Monday morning commute, prompting what has been dubbed the 'Great British Skive-Off'. Roads that are usually bustling with traffic appeared like ghost towns, while train stations saw significantly fewer passengers than normal.
Thunderstorms delay kick-off
The match was originally due to start at 1am UK time, but severe weather forced officials to activate the stadium's thunderstorm protocol just an hour before kick-off. Play cannot begin until 30 minutes have passed since lightning was last recorded within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Kick-off was eventually pushed forward to 2am UK time, with the match concluding shortly after 4am. The unexpected delay meant millions of supporters stayed up even later than planned to watch England book their place in the quarter-finals, leaving fans facing just a few hours' sleep before work.
Pubs allowed to stay open until 5am
England fans were given a helping hand before the late-night match after Prime Minister Keir Starmer intervened to extend licensing hours, allowing pubs and bars across England and Wales to stay open until 5am. The move removed the need for venues to apply for extended licences, ensuring supporters could watch the entire game without worrying about being sent home before the final whistle. Many pubs used the rare extended hours to cater to fans determined to cheer on the Three Lions despite the early-hour start.
Bellingham and Kane secure victory
Fans who battled through the early hours were rewarded with one of the tournament's most dramatic matches. Jude Bellingham put England in control with two goals in quick succession, before Harry Kane added a penalty after England had been reduced to 10 men following Jarell Quansah's red card. The 3-2 victory over the tournament hosts sparked jubilant celebrations among supporters, both inside pubs and at home, despite the hour. For many, the lack of sleep was a small price to pay after watching the Three Lions overcome a hostile atmosphere and reach the last eight.
Bellingham's cheeky advice
After the match, Jude Bellingham had a cheeky suggestion for anyone who had stayed up to watch. Asked to send a message to England supporters, he said: "Have another shot and text your bosses to say you're not coming in tomorrow. That's about it. My god, if you can't enjoy a night like this, just for one night, then I don't know what it's worth." He added: "That is the thing I dream of, being a part of this England squad, bringing my country together, giving them nights like this that they will enjoy for many years to come. I am so proud of this team. What we have done tonight is spectacular." Many fans appeared to take his advice, with roads and stations noticeably quieter than usual.
Quarter-finals ahead
England's victory over Mexico has set up a quarter-final clash against Norway, scheduled to kick off at 10pm UK time on Saturday 11 July. Unlike the Mexico match, fans will not need to stay awake until 4am, as the later kick-off time means they can cheer on the team without another sleepless night. The Three Lions will be hoping to carry their momentum into the last-eight clash as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.
