Pubs could stay open for extra time next summer should a home nation reach the quarter-finals, semi-finals or final of the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026.

Today (Thursday 4 December) the government kicks off a six week public consultation on extending pub licensing hours in England and Wales to allow fans to come together and support the home nations.

The consultation proposes a potential extension to licensing hours for the semi-finals and final until 1:00am, if matches kick-off at 9:00pm or earlier. It is the first time a World Cup has been hosted by three nations: the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico.

The Home Secretary has the legislative power to extend these hours on occasions of “exceptional international, national or local significance”, such as the Women’s 2025 Euro, the Men’s 2024 Euro final and Women’s Euro 2022 Final.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:

Our nation’s pubs are going into extra time.

If any home nation reaches the final stages, we will extend licencing hours.

The party won’t end before the final whistle is blown.

And in a personal capacity, I would like to add: It’s coming home.

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association said:

As we look forward to the 2026 football World Cup, the Night Time Industries Association welcomes the government’s proposal to launch a public consultation on extending licensing hours for pubs and bars in England and Wales. The World Cup is a globally celebrated event that brings communities together, and extending licensing hours will allow fans to enjoy the matches safely, responsibly, and in a vibrant social atmosphere.

Our sector is committed to supporting safe, well-managed venues where people can celebrate major sporting events. We believe this consultation represents a positive step in ensuring that the hospitality industry can contribute fully to the nation’s excitement and economic activity during such a landmark event.

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said:

The pub has and always will be the home of live sport and there’s no better place to gather under one roof during moments of huge national significance and make memories.

Our sector plays a huge part in boosting community spirit and extending licensing hours will mean that people can gather for longer at their local to cheer on our brilliant teams.

The consultation will run until January 2026. A decision by the Home Office will be taken as soon as possible once responses have been reviewed

Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said:

The pub is the home of football, and the atmosphere for the World Cup is always incredible as fans gather to cheer on the home nations.

Outside of the stadium itself, it’s the best place to watch the games and I’m pleased the government is once again looking at extended licensing hours. Not only will it generate the best atmosphere for fans, but it can provide a real boost for hospitality businesses.

source: GOV