It’s rare for pubs in the UK to be allowed to stay open into the early hours of Monday morning and football fans are expected to make the most of it.
Sir Keir called the move “good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together”.
While Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said it was a “very welcome announcement”.
But many pubs, who have had to apply for extended licensing hours to sell alcohol, are now planning for the change in their opening times.
Pub chain Greene King has said more than 600 pubs across England will be staying open late to show the match
Though, not all pubs are planning to keep their taps flowing.
Wetherspoons has said only five of its more than 800 pubs will remain open for the match, but other large chains – including Greene King – will be making the most of the change in their last call at the bar.
President of the UK Bartender’s Guild (UKBG) Claudia Carrozi told the hospitality staff working until 05:00 on Monday should be given plenty of notice, proper breaks and consideration must be taken on how they get home.
“Planning is key,” she said.
While pubs have only had since Thursday to prepare – and last night’s mixed messaging over start time no doubt confused matters – Corrozi said pubs may have already had a “contingency plan” in place.
She said it’s important customers need to remember people working in pubs during the match are “going the extra mile” and they need to be treated with respect.
“Without the staff, this celebration couldn’t happen.”
With more people staying out late on Sunday night, the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) told the the “late announcement” meant officers would have to be taken away from other duties and work longer hours.
It requested that fans “drink within sensible limits” and be “considerate” while watching the match.
