Police have warned people watching England’s World Cup clash with Mexico that it will be carrying out roadside drink-driving tests on Monday.
The game was due to kick off at 01:00 BST in Mexico City, and some pubs and bars in the region were expected to stay open late to allow fans to watch Thomas Tuchel’s men attempt to win a place in the quarter-finals.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: “With the match taking place later in the evening, some people may continue drinking into the early hours.
“While you may feel fit to drive the following morning, alcohol can remain in your system for longer than you think and you could still be over the legal limit.”
On Friday, the National Police Chiefs Council criticised the timing of the government’s decision to let pubs stay open until 05:00 BST on Monday.
It said the “late announcement” meant officers would have to be taken away from other duties and work longer hours, even though the team’s likely route through the tournament “has been known for a considerable time”.
It asked fans to be “considerate” and “drink within sensible limits” while watching the crucial last-16 match in which the losing team will be eliminated.
A Downing Street spokeswoman said that after England’s progression was confirmed on Wednesday evening, the government “announced plans as quickly as possible following this”.
The spokeswoman added: “And more broadly, we have engaged with policing partners throughout preparations for the World Cup and we are grateful for their flexibility and professionalism throughout.”
