FIFA World Cup Licensing Hours Order 2026
The government has confirmed the FIFA World Cup Licensing Hours Order 2026 order, to extend licensable hours when England and/or Scotland are playing in the World Cup 2026.
This is only applicable to pubs, bars, clubs and other premises or club premises licensed for on sale or supply of alcohol until 11pm or later.
The order comes into affect between 29 June and 19 July, and it doesn't include the initial group stages.
The order only applies when England or Scotland are playing in the knockout-stage matches, the round of 32, round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, bronze medal match and the final.
What does it allow?
An extension of opening hours, sale and supply of alcohol for consumption on the premises hours and late-night refreshment hours.
- If kick off is between 5pm and 9pm you can stay open from 11pm to 1am.
- If kick off is between 9pm and 10pm, you can stay open from 11pm to 2am.
- If kick off is before 5pm or after 10pm there is no extension and you will need to submit a TEN.
You must adhere to the conditions of your premises or club licence.
It doesn’t include an extension to off sales of alcohol or regulated entertainment.
Other extensions
If your premises or club licence hours end before 11pm on a match day, you will need to submit a TEN to cover a later opening.