Pubs in the England and Wales can stay open late during the 2026 World Cup -- but only if England and Scotland reach the knockout stages.
The Home Office had already ruled that pubs could stay open for certain matches, but in April it was revealed that all knockout matches involving England and Scotland would see pubs open until later.
The latest announcement from the Home Office allows pubs to stay open until 1 a.m, BST for any knockout matches that kick off between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m, and until 2 a.m, for kick offs between 9 p.m, and 10 p.m.
If England win their group, comprising of Croatia, Ghana and Panama, they will play at 5 p.m. in Atlanta on July 1.
Scotland meanwhile are in a group containing heavy hitters Brazil and Morocco, and have beaten Haiti. If they were to stun the footballing world and come top of their group, they would play their round-of-32 match on June 29 in Houston, with kick off at 6 p.m.
The Home Secretary has the legislative power to extend these hours on occasions of "exceptional international, national or local significance." Pub licensing hours were extended for the Women's 2025 Euros, the Men's 2024 Euro final and Women's Euro 2022 Final.
The 2026 World Cup will be staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
England will open against Croatia at 9 p.m. [UK time] in Dallas, before meeting Ghana at 9 p.m. in Boston. England close the group stage against Panama with a 10 p.m. kick-off at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: "If our boys are on the pitch, we want our fans to stay in the pub.
"So we're giving pubs and bars an open goal to serve punters long after the last penalty hits the back of the net."
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association said:: "As we look forward to the 2026 football World Cup, the Night Time Industries Association welcomes the government's proposal to launch a public consultation on extending licensing hours for pubs and bars in England and Wales. The World Cup is a globally celebrated event that brings communities together, and extending licensing hours will allow fans to enjoy the matches safely, responsibly, and in a vibrant social atmosphere.
"Our sector is committed to supporting safe, well-managed venues where people can celebrate major sporting events. We believe this consultation represents a positive step in ensuring that the hospitality industry can contribute fully to the nation's excitement and economic activity during such a landmark event."
Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said: "The pub is the home of football, and the atmosphere for the World Cup is always incredible as fans gather to cheer on the home nations.
"Outside of the stadium itself, it's the best place to watch the games and I'm pleased the government is once again looking at extended licensing hours. Not only will it generate the best atmosphere for fans, but it can provide a real boost for hospitality businesses."