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England fans will be able to watch the Three Lions' huge World Cup clash with Mexico at the pub after a late change from the UK government.
Pubs in England and Wales have been given permission to remain open until 5am on Monday morning, ensuring supporters can stay until the final whistle.
Pubs in UK allowed to stay open for England vs Mexico
The UK government has performed a late U-turn over licensing rules ahead of England's World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
With the game kicking off at 1am UK time on Monday morning, existing World Cup licensing extensions would not have allowed many pubs to remain open for the duration of the match.
However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday afternoon that venues in England and Wales will now be permitted to remain open until 5am, with emergency legislation set to be passed through Parliament on Friday, as per the BBC.
The decision came just hours after business minister Kate Dearden said opening hours would not be extended further for the match.
Starmer welcomed the change, saying: “Football might be coming home, but we're making sure fans don't have to.”
The decision has also been welcomed by the hospitality industry, with more than 600 Greene King pubs across England already confirming they intend to remain open for the match.
The 5am closing time also covers the possibility of extra time and penalties at the Estadio Azteca, with the match guaranteed to produce a winner and England's World Cup campaign on the line.
FGG says: Welcome boost for England fans
This is a welcome late change for supporters hoping to experience one of England's biggest World Cup matches in a traditional pub atmosphere.
A 1am kick-off was always going to create difficulties under the previous licensing rules, so allowing venues to stay open until 5am gives fans certainty and provides pubs with a valuable opportunity during what should be a huge night for the hospitality industry.