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24th February 2025
03:54pm GMT
Pubs may be allowed to extend their opening hours until 1am if England or Wales make it to the semi-finals of the women's Euros this summer.
It may feel like they're tempting fate at this point given England's disappointing draw with Portugal and Wales loss to Italy on Friday, but the Home Office has announced five months early that plans are underway to keep boozer doors open for two extra hours in the event of success for the home teams.
No solid decision has been made yet though, with views being collected in a large-scale public consultation lasting for a month.
Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson said: "The Lionesses showed us in 2022 what it means to bring football home, and now we want to make sure the whole nation can come together again to cheer on our teams.
"These plans will help our pubs and bars stay open longer if England or Wales make it to the final stages, allowing friends and families to celebrate together and providing a welcome boost to our hospitality industry."
Similar plans were put into place last year for the men's Euros, with then-Home Secretary James Cleverly announcing England or Scotland fans would get an extra couple of hours for pints if they got to the semi-finals.
England not only made their way to the semis but reached the final against Spain – only to crash out 2-1.
There may be higher expectations for the Lionesses in Switzerland this July, after they were victorious over Germany in 2022, in what was a first for an English national team since the men won the World Cup in 1966.
The Welsh women meanwhile made history qualifying for a major tournament for the first time and the joy of that feat could carry them through the tournament though they find themselves in a tough group with France, Netherlands and neighbours England.
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said: "The extension of trading hours from 11pm to 1am during key matches will provide a much-needed economic boost, allowing venues to capitalise on increased footfall and create a vibrant atmosphere for fans to come together and celebrate.
"The exponential growth in the popularity of women’s football presents an incredible moment for both the sport and the night-time economy.
"The success of the Lionesses in recent years has inspired a new generation of supporters, and it is only right that we embrace this enthusiasm by ensuring fans have the opportunity to enjoy the matches in social settings."
