The Scottish Beer & Pub Association (SBPA) has written to First Minister John Swinney and all local Licensing Boards ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With kick-offs expected as late as 2am due to time differences with host cities in North America, the SBPA has called for extended licensing hours to allow fans to watch games in full, and to give the pub trade a much-needed lift. The association estimates that each Scotland match could generate up to £3 million in additional revenue for the sector.
Paul Togneri, Senior Policy Manager at the SBPA, said, “The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a fantastic opportunity for Scotland to showcase its passion for football and for communities to come together. Pubs and bars will be at the heart of that experience, providing a safe and welcoming space for fans to celebrate responsibly – provided the Government and local Licensing Boards allow us.”
He added, “The late-night kick-offs, coupled with the potential for extra-time, penalties, water breaks and even weather delays, mean that clear guidance to local authorities is crucial. We stand ready to work with the Government and local authorities to ensure Scotland’s pubs play a positive role in this historic tournament, while upholding licensing objectives and promoting responsible enjoyment.”
The SBPA is seeking national coordination to avoid a “patchwork” approach to extended hours and has offered to work with the Scottish Government to help shape official guidance for Licensing Boards. The letter adds, “By working together, we can ensure that Scotland’s pubs play a positive role in this historic tournament.”
First Minister John Swinney said this week, that while licensing decisions remain with local authorities, the Government would support efforts to enable fans to enjoy the World Cup in full.
“The Scotland games are certainly going to be late in the day, and I’m absolutely delighted that we have reached the World Cup and am looking forward to it enormously,” he said.
“Obviously, the issue of opening hours for pubs and venues is a matter for local authorities, but we will be working very closely with local authorities to make sure that Scotland can enjoy, to the full, the wonderful experience of being in the World Cup and its many stages.”
The Scotland men’s national team will have their first group stage fixture against Haiti on June 14 with kick-off at 2am UK time. Scotland’s other group-stage matches both begin at 11pm. The SBPA says early clarity will allow pubs and bars to plan staffing and stock, and ensure a safe and regulated environment for fans to gather.