The World Cup kicks off Thursday with matches across the Americas, many slated for 22:00 BST or later for UK fans. England’s group fixtures against Croatia, Ghana and Panama begin at 21:00 or 22:00, while Scotland’s opener versus Haiti starts at 02:00. Late kick‑offs push pub opening hours into the small hours, sparking a licensing debate. Fans will likely stream elsewhere if pubs close.

Local venues are already testing the limits. Bristol’s Prospect Building will screen every England game but will skip a possible 01:00 Round‑of‑16 match, calling it “not viable.” In Stroud, the Fountain Inn can field six screens to show three games simultaneously. Owners in Wiltshire and Glastonbury say extended licences could boost trade, though staff worry about alcohol‑related incidents. They hope crowds will stay orderly.

The government softened rules this summer, allowing pubs to stay open until 01:00 for games starting between 17:00‑21:00 and until 02:00 for later kick‑offs. Police stress monitoring intoxication and cracking down on drink‑driving, with extra patrols slated for match nights. With licensing flexed and England poised for a midnight showdown, venues must balance profit and public safety. Responsibility rests on managers tonight.