Mexico vs England: Pubs allowed to stay open until 5am for Three Lions' World Cup last-16 tie

England are through to the last-16 of the 2026 World Cup - but their clash against Mexico will not kick-off until 1am UK time.

Pubs and bars will be able to stay open until 5am on Monday so England supporters can watch the World Cup last-16 match against co-hosts Mexico.

Alcohol licensing hours will be extended for the match, with the decision confirmed on Thursday evening.

The UK government has used legislative powers to extend licensing hours on the basis that Mexico v England is an event of "exceptional national significance".

The change removes the need for individual premises in England and Wales to apply for extended hours, giving a welcome boost to the hospitality sector.

The home secretary has the legislative power to extend licensing hours on occasions of "exceptional international, national or local significance".

It follows extensions already granted for England's knock-out games that kicked off up until 10pm.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "Football might be coming home, but we're making sure fans don't have to.

"Pubs staying open until the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together," he added.

"The whole country will be backing the team. Come on, England!"

The fixture poses a unique challenge for the nation, with schools and workplaces likely to be affected, and while pubs and bars can stay open longer, it does not look like there will be an additional bank holiday as a result.

"Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. Come on," he said. "There's so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch.

"There will be a big, big match on in four days and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children."