Pubs and bars across England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 5am on Monday for England's World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico, scheduled to kick off at approximately 1am UK time. The UK government extended alcohol licensing hours using legislative powers reserved for events of "exceptional international, national or local significance."
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "Football might be coming home, but we're making sure fans don't have to. Pubs staying open til the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together."
The decision reverses earlier guidance that had capped hours at 2am for late-night kickoffs. England's 2-1 victory over the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wednesday booked Monday's tie against the host nation.