Pubs set for 2am closing for 2026 World Cup fixtures

The UK government has confirmed extended licensing hours for pubs in England and Wales during the 2026 Men’s Football World Cup, allowing venues to stay open later for key matches.

Under the plans announced yesterday (13 April), pubs will be permitted to serve until 1am for fixtures kicking off between 5pm and 9pm, while later matches starting from 9pm up to 10pm will allow trading until 2am, subject to any of the home nations reaching the final.

The move builds on earlier Home Office proposals to relax licensing rules due to the tournament’s scheduling across the US, Canada and Mexico, which results in a wide range of UK kick-off times.

The latest update confirms that extended hours will also apply to certain earlier evening matches, including England and Scotland’s first knockout games should they progress from the group stages.

In total, up to 13 matches could now fall under the national extension, with three additional fixtures included following the revised decision.

Alcohol licensing is a devolved matter in Scotland, with individual local authorities considering their own extensions for licensed venues.

Industry leaders have welcomed the announcement: Night-Time Industries Association chief executive Michael Kill described it as a “welcome boost” for the sector while British Beer and Pub Association chief executive Emma McClarkin said that with pubs opening for longer, “means people can come together, boost community spirit and enjoy a summer of sport.” 

She added: “The government cutting red tape is a really positive step in helping the sector and must go hand in hand with reducing regulatory burdens and costs so our locals can continue to be places for people to gather under one roof to celebrate moments of national significance.” 

The extended hours follow a six-week public consultation launched in December.