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Home Secretary Extends UK Pub Hours for World Cup Knockout Matches

Pubs can stay open until 1am or 2am for late kick-offs during World Cup knockout rounds if England advances, supporting local businesses and fan engagement, British Beer and Pub Association said.

  • Ahead of the knockout stage, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood agreed to extend pub hours in England and Wales until 1am for most matches, rising to 2am for 10pm kick-offs.
  • Because time differences push matches late, the move aims to ensure pubs don’t close before the winning goal as Ms Mahmood said, `With later kick-offs at this year's World Cup, we don't want pubs to blow the final whistle before the winning goal`.
  • Under the plans, pubs can remain open until 1am for most matches and 2am for 10pm kick-offs, with temporary licences available for very late finishes.
  • Conditional on England's progress, reports say pubs will only get extended hours if the Three Lions advance beyond the quarter-finals, and the British Beer and Pub Association called it a win for pubs, jobs and community spirit.
  • Because the 2026 World Cup is hosted by three countries and features 48 teams, England and Scotland have qualified and the tournament begins on June 11, while Wales or Northern Ireland could join via playoffs.
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17 Articles

Bristol PostBristol Post
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Wales OnlineWales Online
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Pubs to be allowed to open until 2am on some days after June 11

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has agreed to extend opening hours

·Bristol, United Kingdom
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Evening StandardEvening Standard
+7 Reposted by 7 other sources
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Pubs can open later if home nations reach World Cup knockout stage

The Home Secretary has agreed to extend opening hours until 1am for most knockout games.

·London, United Kingdom
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GB News broke the news in London, United Kingdom on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
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