Pubs across the United Kingdom are grappling with existing licensing regulations as they prepare for the imminent World Cup, which features several late kick-off times that fall outside standard operating hours. With many matches scheduled for 7pm or 8pm GMT, and some even later, venues are exploring their options to allow fans to watch games in a communal setting, raising questions about how late they can legally stay open.
Under current UK licensing laws, most pubs and bars are permitted to serve alcohol and operate until 11pm or midnight, particularly on weekdays. However, a significant number of World Cup fixtures, especially those involving teams from different time zones, are expected to run beyond these times, potentially concluding well after midnight. This presents a challenge for publicans who wish to capitalise on the demand for late-night viewing but must adhere to strict legal frameworks.
To extend their opening hours beyond their usual licence, pubs typically need to apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) from their local council. A TEN allows a premises to undertake licensable activities for a limited period, usually up to 168 hours, and for a maximum of 15 events per year. These applications must be submitted at least 10 working days before the event, though a 'late TEN' can be submitted between 5 and 9 working days before, albeit with fewer permissions. Local authorities review these applications, and both the police and environmental health departments have the power to object, which can lead to a hearing and potential refusal.
In the past, the UK government has occasionally introduced blanket licensing extensions for major sporting events, such as the UEFA European Championship in 2021, which allowed pubs to stay open later without needing individual TENs. However, no such nationwide relaxation of licensing laws has been announced for the upcoming World Cup. This places the onus squarely on individual publicans to navigate the application process with their local councils, adding an administrative burden during a busy period.
The implications for both businesses and football fans are significant. For pubs, extended hours represent a crucial opportunity to boost revenue during a period of increased customer interest. For fans, the ability to watch late-night matches in a pub environment is often a preferred way to experience the tournament's excitement. The success of these applications will vary by local authority, potentially leading to an inconsistent experience for viewers across different towns and cities.