Pubs in England and Wales will be allowed to extend their opening hours to accommodate potential delays in World Cup matches due to weather, the UK government announced. The licensing goalposts have been moved to ensure fans are not forced to leave pubs if a match is delayed or goes into extra time and penalties.
England's quarter-final match against Norway in Miami is scheduled to kick off at 10 p.m. BST. However, tropical storms and extreme heat in Florida have raised concerns about potential delays. The government has confirmed that eligible licensed venues can remain open until 30 minutes after the final whistle, regardless of any delays to the start time or the match duration.
This decision follows a similar situation during England's Round of 16 match against Mexico, which was delayed by an hour due to severe weather. Previously, ministers had already extended opening hours for that game until 2 a.m., but the new flexible licensing laws provide further reassurance.
Policing minister Sarah Jones stated that England fans deserve the opportunity to watch the entire quarter-final together. "After the weather delay we saw before the Mexico game, we want to give fans and venues complete certainty that no-one will miss a moment of the action," Jones said. "I hope pubs and bars across England and Wales are packed on Saturday night, as we hopefully move one step closer to bringing football home."
The change is being implemented through temporary legislation that allows for the extension of licensing hours on occasions deemed of "exceptional international, national or local significance." This flexibility will reportedly extend to England's subsequent matches in the tournament, including the final.
Thousands of fans are expected to watch the match in Miami, with many already celebrating in the city. Supporters expressed optimism about England's chances in the tournament, citing key players and the team's current momentum.
