Pubs can stay open for full Norway game - even if kick-off delayed
The extended hours means fans can watch the entire game, even if the start is delayed.
By BBC News
Pubs across Cheshire and the wider region can remain open for the full duration of England’s Norway match, even if the kick-off is delayed, thanks to a government extension of licensing hours. The move ensures fans will not be forced to leave mid-game if weather or other factors push the start time later than scheduled.
The Government has confirmed that licensed venues in England and Wales will be permitted to stay open until 5am on Monday, specifically to allow supporters to watch the England versus Norway World Cup quarter-final . This emergency licensing extension was introduced to accommodate the high demand from fans planning to watch the match in public venues, following concerns that standard closing times would cut the game short if delays occurred.
Originally, the match was set to begin at 1pm UK time, but the latest update indicates a potential one-hour delay due to weather conditions . Without the extended hours, pubs would have been required to close at their normal time, potentially ejecting supporters before the final whistle if the game went to penalties or experienced further postponements .
The new arrangement removes that risk, giving venues the flexibility to keep doors open until 5am regardless of when the ball is first kicked. Cheshire pubs, from the bustling centres of Chester and Warrington to the quieter villages of the Cheshire Plain, are expected to welcome large crowds for the match.
Many establishments have already begun preparing special screenings, with some offering themed food and drink deals to match the occasion. Local licensing officers have been briefed on the temporary extension, and venue managers are being advised to ensure they comply with all other standard regulations while operating under the new hours.
The decision comes after an emergency law was put forward by Prime Minister Keir Starmer earlier this week, granting pubs permission to remain open until 5am for the World Cup match . This was seen as a significant win for fans, who had previously faced uncertainty about whether they could watch the entire game in public venues.
The extension was initially expected to provide ample time for the full match if it started at the scheduled 1pm, but the possibility of a delay made the flexibility even more critical. Supporters planning to attend the match in pubs are being urged to book early, as many venues are expected to reach capacity.
Some establishments are introducing ticketed entry systems to manage the flow of customers and ensure a safe environment for all attendees. Local authorities have also reminded venues to maintain responsible drinking practices and to be prepared for increased foot traffic in the early hours of Monday morning.
The match against Norway is a crucial quarter-final for England, with the team aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals. Fans have shown strong support ahead of the game, with many travelling from across the region to join the celebrations in local pubs.
The extended licensing hours are expected to boost morale and create a more festive atmosphere, allowing supporters to fully immerse themselves in the match without the worry of being cut off mid-game. While the 5am closing time provides a clear endpoint, there is still a risk that further delays could push the game beyond this limit.
If the match is pushed back further, pubs may still have to eject punters before the final whistle, as the extended hours only apply up to 5am on Monday . However, the current arrangement offers the best possible chance for fans to watch the entire game, even if the start is delayed by an hour or more.
Local pub owners in Cheshire have welcomed the decision, noting that the extended hours will help them maximise revenue while providing a valuable service to the community. Many have expressed gratitude for the government’s quick response to the issue, which has helped to avoid the kind of frustration seen during previous matches when fans were forced to leave before the game ended.
As the countdown to the match continues, Cheshire pubs are set to become the heart of the local celebration, with fans gathering to support England in what could be a defining moment in their World Cup campaign. The extended licensing hours ensure that the spirit of the game will be felt across the region, from the first whistle to the final result, regardless of any delays that may occur.