I pub possono rimanere aperti fino alle 5 del mattino per la partita di Inghilterra-Messico.

Pubs across England and Wales have been granted special permission to stay open until 5am on Monday, July 6, 2026, to accommodate fans watching England’s World Cup last-16 match against Mexico. The decision came after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made a last-minute U-turn, extending licensing hours beyond the previously established limits. This allows pubs to remain open past midnight, enabling fans to gather and support their team throughout the entire match, which is scheduled to start at 1am UK time and is expected to end after 3am. The move has been hailed as a significant concession to both the hospitality industry and football enthusiasts.

The decision was announced on Thursday, July 1, 2026, following pressure from MPs and representatives of the beer and pub sectors. Initially, the government had stated it would not extend licensing hours further than the current rules, which allowed pubs to open until 1am for matches starting between 9pm and 11pm. However, after discussions in Parliament, Starmer reversed his stance, citing the importance of supporting fans during a major sporting event. The change was implemented through emergency legislation passed on Friday, ensuring that pubs could operate without needing to apply individually to local councils for temporary licenses.

The list of pubs participating includes several well-known chains such as Wetherspoons, Greene King, and Fullers, along with numerous independent venues. Wetherspoons, which operates over 800 pubs nationwide, has confirmed that five of its locations will remain open until 5am. These include Bishops Mill in Durham, Cooper Rose in Sunderland, Penderel’s Oak in Holborn, Solomon Cutler in Birmingham, and William Rufus in Carlisle. Greene King, with more than 2,600 pubs, has pledged that 600 of its sites will stay open, including notable spots like Abington in Northampton, Acorn Inn in Burncross, and Actress in East Dulwich. Other chains such as Boxpark, Young’s, and Fuller, Smith & Turner have also joined the effort, contributing additional venues to the list.

Independent pubs have also expressed enthusiasm about the initiative. Many have publicly announced their intention to keep their doors open, recognizing the potential for increased foot traffic and revenue during the match. Some of these pubs include the Black Bull in Folkestone, the Blue Anchor in Aintree, and the Churchill in Poole. The inclusion of these smaller, community-focused establishments highlights the broader impact of the policy, which aims to create a unified experience for fans across the UK.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions from various stakeholders. While many in the hospitality sector have praised the move, some have raised concerns about safety and the potential for increased incidents related to alcohol consumption and road fatigue. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has warned that individuals who stay up late should avoid driving until they are fully rested and hydrated, emphasizing the dangers posed by tiredness, dehydration, and alcohol. Similarly, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has advised employers to set clear expectations regarding work schedules on Monday, noting that while some flexibility may be offered, there is no legal obligation for companies to adjust their policies for the match.

Looking ahead, the focus will shift to managing the logistics of the extended opening hours and ensuring that the pubs can safely accommodate the anticipated influx of customers. Local authorities and police forces are preparing for potential challenges, including increased traffic and public order issues, particularly in areas known for hosting large gatherings. As the match approaches, fans are being encouraged to plan their evenings carefully, considering transportation options and personal health, to ensure they can enjoy the game responsibly. With the stakes high for England, the extended pub hours represent a unique blend of celebration, commerce, and community spirit, marking a significant moment in the ongoing World Cup coverage.