Government Permits Pubs to Operate Until 5am for England-Mexico Match

Pubs across England and Wales will be permitted to extend their opening hours until 5am on Monday, 1 July, to accommodate fans watching the England vs. Mexico football match. This decision marks a reversal from the government's previous position, which had indicated no further relaxation of licensing laws for the World Cup beyond those already in place.

The Home Office confirmed the temporary alteration to licensing regulations, citing Section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003, which allows for extended hours during "occasions of exceptional international, national, or local significance." The move facilitates late-night viewing of the 2am kick-off.

Previously, pubs were permitted to open until 1am for England matches. This further extension comes after considerable pressure from the hospitality sector and football supporters, who argued that restrictive closing times would detrimentally affect trade and fan experience during late-night fixtures.