British pubs could be set for a World Cup boost with rules to be relaxed to give punters extra-time to watch the Three Lions in the US, Mexico and Canada tournament this summer.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood had previously spoken about relax licensing laws for boozers to cash in on the major tournament but it all depends on the Three Lions now.
Boozers will only be giving the special privilege should England go beyond the last eight this summer.
This mean pubs will be allowed to stay open until 1-2am for any home nation matches, which will be England, Scotland and possibly Wales. However, they will have to get past a tricky group stage.
Speaking to The Sun, Ms Mahmood said: “With later kick-offs at this year’s World Cup, we don’t want pubs to blow the final whistle before the winning goal.
“So we’re showing red tape the red card and taking pub hours to extra-time.”
Also speaking to the publication, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association Emma McClarkin called the decision “a win for pubs, jobs and community spirit”.
Any pub can be handed the extra hours for late night football action, but they need to apply for a license.
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