Pubs can stay open for full Norway game – even if kick-off delayed
Pubs to Remain Open Beyond Final Whistle for England's World Cup Quarter-Final
Pubs can stay open for full - The UK government has announced that pubs in England and Wales will stay open for the full duration of the World Cup quarter-final against Norway, even if the match is delayed. This decision allows fans to watch every minute of the game, regardless of late kick-off times caused by extreme heat. Licensing hours will be extended by 30 minutes past the final whistle, providing greater flexibility for supporters.
Previous Match Delays Spark Policy Change
Earlier, pubs had already been permitted to operate until 02:00 BST for the England vs Mexico match on 2 July. That game, held at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium, faced a one-hour delay due to storms and lightning reports. The policy adjustment aims to ensure continuity for fans, following the uncertainty surrounding the Mexico match's start time.
"England fans deserve the chance to watch every minute of the quarter-final together, and that is exactly what our extension guarantees," stated Policing Minister Sarah Jones. "After the weather delay we saw before the Mexico game, we want to give fans and venues complete certainty that no-one will miss a moment of the action."
Heat Advisory and Risk of Delays
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Miami, where the Norway match is set to begin at 22:00 BST (18:00 local time). BBC weather presenter Matt Taylor warned that temperatures could reach 33C during the day, with humidity making it feel up to 43C. A 20-30% chance of storms at kick-off time means there's a possibility of a 30-minute delay if lightning is detected within eight miles of the stadium.
"It's going to be a tough day for players and spectators alike in Miami, as heat and humidity levels soar," said Taylor. "Daytime temperatures will peak at a scorching 33C (91.4F), but the impact of high humidity levels means it will feel much more like it is 43C out there."
Flexible Licensing for Major Matches
Under the updated rules, pubs do not need to apply individually for extended hours. The Home Office stated that this blanket extension applies to all England fixtures, potentially including the final, ensuring venues can remain open for 30 minutes after the last whistle. Licensing hours were previously extended from 23:00 to 01:00 for games starting at 17:00 to 21:00, and to 02:00 for matches starting after 21:00.
Fifa uses the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index to assess heat conditions, considering temperature, humidity, time, and sunlight. The union Fifpro recommends delaying or postponing matches if WBGT exceeds 28C. Currently, the forecast for Miami shows a WBGT of 27C, with no indication the game will be canceled.