Licensing Act 2003 (FIFA World Cup Licensing Hours) Order 2026 made

The Government has now made The Licensing Act 2003 (FIFA World Cup Licensing Hours) Order 2026, confirming extended opening hours for licensed premises in England and Wales during key stages of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The Order was made on 12 May 2026 and will come into force on 8 June 2026.

The Order permits pubs, bars, clubs and other on‑trade premises already licensed for on‑sales of alcohol to stay open later on the days of specified knockout‑stage matches—the round of 32, round of 16, quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and the final—but only when England or Scotland are playing. Where this applies, operators will not need to submit a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) to benefit from the extended hours.

This is a familiar approach under section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003, which allows national licensing hours extensions for events of exceptional significance. The Order does not apply to group‑stage fixtures and does not extend permissions for regulated entertainment or late‑night refreshment beyond what a premises is already licensed to provide.

Alongside the legislative changes, readers are reminded of the World Cup 2026 guidance, produced with important input from the Institute of Licensing. The guidance—developed by the British Beer & Pub Association with partners including UKHospitality, the BII, the NPCC, National Pubwatch and Best Bar None—sets out practical steps for safe and well‑managed match days between 11 June and 19 July 2026.

The IoL played a key role in shaping the guidance to ensure it reflects licensing authority expectations and supports consistent approaches across England and Wales. It highlights the importance of early engagement with police and licensing teams, checking licence conditions, using TENs where required, and maintaining strong operational controls around staffing, responsible alcohol service, crowd management, CCTV, glassware, outdoor screening and counter‑terrorism awareness.

The combination of the Licensing Hours Order and the national guidance aims to support well‑run, safe and enjoyable match‑day experiences for communities and the licensed trade throughout the tournament.