Consultation - proposed licensing hours relaxation for FIFA men’s World Cup in 2026

As per previous international football events (most recently the UEFA Men’s Euro Championship 2024 and UEFA Women’s Euro Championship 2025) and other special occasions (e.g. Royal Weddings and His Majesty’s Coronation etc) the Government is once again considering the automatic extension of licensing hours in connection with the FIFA men’s World Cup in 2026.

The proposed relaxation of licensing hours would be for licensed premises in England and Wales if any of the home nations (England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland) reached the semi-final or final – with the extension being until 1am the following mornings in those circumstances.

The extensions would only relate to the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises and not apply to off sales only premises, regulated entertainment, late night refreshment only venues or unlicensed premises.

Responses should be sent to alcohollicensingconsultations@homeoffice.gov.uk (or through the online response form) by 15 January 2026.

Further information can be found on the Home Office website – here