Hundreds of pubs across England are expected to remain closed for the World Cup round of 16 match against Mexico, despite the government permitting them to stay open until 5am. The match kicks off at 1am on Monday.
Government extension and pub response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday that pubs in England and Wales could stay open late for the match, following calls from MPs for leeway beyond the existing 2am extension already in place for England games. The blanket extension means individual pubs do not need to apply for extended hours.
However, many pub owners have decided to remain closed due to staffing issues and concerns about disturbing residents in residential areas. A spokesperson for Wetherspoons confirmed that only five of its 800 pubs will be open for the match. In contrast, Greene King, which operates 2,600 pubs, restaurants, and hotels across the UK, said over 600 of its venues would stay open late to show the game.
Local pub owner concerns
Tommy Higgs, co-owner of The Three Horseshoes pub in Witney, Oxfordshire, explained his decision not to open. Speaking to LBC, he said: 'We’re in a built-up community around here, and I think it’s just a little bit disrespectful for our locals to have that sort of noise at 5am. No one’s going to want to work until five in the morning. We’re not a nightclub, we’re a local pub in a small town, and I am not allowed to annoy my neighbours because I’ll be into holy hell with that.'
Industry perspective
Andrew Gallagher, brand and marketing director at Greene King, expressed enthusiasm for the extension: 'We’re delighted to have been granted permission to stay open late as England progress through the tournament. There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere in our pubs and it gives fans the chance to come together, soak up the occasion and hopefully celebrate! We know this will be a popular match, so urge guests to secure their spot as soon as possible.'
Declining pub numbers
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) reported earlier this year that the number of pubs in the UK has fallen from 46,829 in 2020 to 44,656 in 2025, reflecting ongoing challenges in the industry. England advanced to the round of 16 after beating the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 on Wednesday and will now face Mexico.
