The announcement that England's World Cup group matches will start before midnight is a “welcome boost” for pubs and bars, the head of an industry body has said.
There were some concerns among fans that late matches could dampen celebrations, with next summer's tournament taking place in the US, Canada and Mexico, meaning some games won't start until 3am UK time.
The dates, kick-off times and stadiums for the group stage matches were confirmed on Saturday, with Thomas Tuchel's side taking on Croatia at 9pm UK time on June 17, 3pm local time in Texas, at the home of NFL team Dallas Cowboys.
The second match against Ghana on June 23 will begin at 4:00 pm in Boston, 9:00 pm in the United Kingdom, while the final group match against Panama at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will begin at 5:00 pm local time – 10:00 pm in the United Kingdom on June 27.
Kate Nicholls, chair of UK Hospitality, said: “This news is a welcome boost for the hospitality industry.
“Everyone knows that if you can't make it to the game, your local pub or bar is the best place to do it.”
But there are concerns that venues in Scotland risk losing that momentum with their national team's later starts.
There will be late nights for armchair fans to watch Scotland games, with the opening match against Haiti in Boston starting at 9pm local time (2am June 14 at home).
The second match against Morocco on June 19 will also be in Boston, kicking off between 6:00 pm and 11:00 pm in the UK, and in the final group match they will face Brazil in Miami on June 24, again at 6:00 pm or 11:00 pm in the UK.
Paul Togneri, of the Scottish Brewery and Pub Association, called for flexibility from licensing boards following the announcement.
“This is a once-in-a-generation moment for Scottish fans and should be a huge boost for Scottish pubs, but with matches at 11pm and 2am that opportunity is at risk,” he said.
“Each match should give an estimated £3 million boost to Scotland's pubs, but we need licensing boards to show flexibility and allow pubs to open their doors, which is why we are calling for temporary licensing declarations for the entire tournament.
“People will rightly want to get together and celebrate, as they did a few weeks ago when we qualified. Let's ensure they can do so in a safe and regulated environment, and give our pubs the chance to benefit from this incredible occasion. No pubs, no party.”
Football fans across the UK will be able to watch the 8pm kick-off of the final, which will take place at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium on July 19.
For England and Wales, the Government on Thursday launched a consultation on extending pub licensing hours for next summer's tournament.
If approved, venues already licensed could extend their opening hours for the semi-finals and final until 1am, if matches in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland start at or before 9pm UK time.
The power was recently used for the Women's Euro in the summer and was also used during the King's coronation in 2023.
Nicholls said: “Major sporting events always provide a boost to sales for the sector and operators will do everything they can to ensure fans get the best experience, as they come together to cheer on their home country teams this summer.”
