Pubs across England and Wales will be permitted to remain open until 5 am (0400 GMT) on Monday to allow football fans to watch England's World Cup round of 16 clash with Mexico, the government announced on Thursday.
Government Decision to Support Fans and Venues
After England secured their place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup, Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the extension of licensing hours. "Football might be coming home, but we're making sure fans don't have to," Starmer said. "Pubs staying open till the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together."
England's Dramatic Victory Over DR Congo
Captain Harry Kane scored twice on Wednesday to rescue England from the brink of a humiliating World Cup exit, defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in a nail-biting match at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta. The victory propelled England into the knockout stage, setting up a daunting trip to face Mexico on their home turf at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday.
Manager Tuchel Urges Children to Watch
England manager Thomas Tuchel has already made the case for parents to allow their children to stay up to watch the match, even though it falls on a school night. "Write an excuse for school and let them watch football," Tuchel urged after his team's victory. "There's so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch... we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children."
PM's Office Advises School Attendance
However, Starmer's office struck a more cautious note, stating that "kids should be in school on Monday." The prime minister's spokesperson added, "The PM has his usual packed schedule on Monday, so he'll be facing the same dilemma as everyone else on whether to stay up."
