Pubs across the UK have received permission to remain open and serve alcohol until 1am this Sunday (July 27) as supporters gather to watch England's women's football team defend their European title.
The Home Secretary has authorised the two-hour extension beyond the standard 11pm closing time for the championship match.
England's Lionesses secured their place in the final after defeating Italy in the semi-finals earlier this week. They will take on Spain at 5pm BST in Switzerland, with millions expected to watch from their local establishments.
The decision enables venues to accommodate fans throughout the evening.Ministers had pledged before the tournament began that they would permit extended trading hours if either England or Wales reached the knockout stages.
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|Pub opening times will be different this weekend
This commitment has now been activated following Tuesday's semi-final triumph.
The relaxation of licensing regulations falls under provisions for events of "exceptional national significance", allowing the Home Secretary to grant special dispensations.
Many establishments took advantage of similar arrangements during the semi-final match.Sunday's encounter represents an opportunity for the Lionesses to retain their continental crown.
Venues that typically cease alcohol service at 11pm can now continue trading for an additional two hours, creating extended celebration opportunities for supporters nationwide.
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Getty | Yvette Cooper has praised the Lionesses
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper praised the team's exceptional performances throughout the competition, describing them as "true national stars" who have demonstrated remarkable resilience and resolve. She emphasised their inspirational impact across the nation.
"Watching football in the local pub is a great British tradition and by extending licensing hours, we will hopefully be able to celebrate late into the evening," Cooper stated.
She expressed her support for manager Sarina Wiegman and the squad, hoping they would "bring it home once again and continue on as champions of Europe."
The Home Secretary highlighted how the players have exhibited extraordinary determination throughout the summer tournament.
Hospitality sector representatives have enthusiastically endorsed the measure, anticipating substantial financial gains.
Emma McClarkin, the chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, suggested the extension could generate approximately one million additional pint sales, emphasising how venues serve as sporting hubs that foster community cohesion and promote inclusive participation.
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PA | Kate Nicholls of UKHospitality noted that previous major sporting finals with extended hours have delivered revenue increases of 46 per cent.
She acknowledged the remarkable expansion of women's sport's appeal in recent years and praised venues' efforts throughout the championship.
Night Time Industries Association chief Michael Kill described the decision as both practical and meaningful, recognising hospitality venues' crucial role in national celebrations.