Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is proposing to extend opening hours.
Pubs in England and Wales face rule change in 2026 under Labour plan
Pubs in England face a rule change in 2026 – with plans for them to open until 1am for the World Cup. In a boost for struggling and hard-hit boozers, pubs will get extended opening times if England reach the quarters, semis or final of next summer’s World Cup.
The World Cup takes place in North America, across the US, Canada and Mexico. And Labour Party Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is proposing to extend opening hours.
Kick-off times will be confirmed on Saturday and may be at 5pm, 8pm, 11pm and 2am UK time. A six-week government consultation kicks off today about opening pubs until 1am — for matches kicking off at 9pm or earlier.
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Star Pubs boss Lawson Mountstevens said: “Big set-piece events like the World Cup are massive for bringing people together.
“Typically we see trade increase by over 20 per cent during these tournaments.” The move will also impact Welsh boozers.
Mike Dove, who runs the Three Horseshoes in Witney, Oxon, added: “We’ll put a heck of a party on if England make the final stages and serve as late as we’re allowed to.
“But we also need help now.” Danni Hewson, at analysts AJ Bell, said: “That storming run resulted in millions more pints being pulled, pizzas scoffed, and bets placed.
“The general feel-good factor is also thought to have boosted consumer spend generally.
“With UK economic growth flatlining in the last few months, the prospect of a summer of sport to lift the spirits could be just the tonic the economy needs.”
Birmingham MP Ms Mahmood said: “Our nations’ pubs are going into extra time. This World Cup could be the first in over 60 years with every home nation there.
“If any nation reaches the final stages, we will extend licensing hours. The party won’t end before the final whistle is blown. And in a personal capacity, I would like to add . . . It’s coming home.”