UK Pubs Granted Late Licensing If England, Wales Reach Women's Euros Semifinals

In anticipation of the UEFA Women's European Championships this July, pubs in England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 1am if either nation reaches the semi-finals or final, extending the usual 11pm closing time to celebrate what the Home Office calls an event of "exceptional national significance." England, the defending champions, and Wales, making their tournament debut, are in the same group alongside France and the Netherlands. Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson emphasized that national football brings people together and the extended hours will enable fans to enjoy the matches longer. Hospitality and industry leaders, including the British Beer & Pub Association and Night Time Industries Association, have welcomed the move, highlighting the cultural significance and economic boost such extensions bring, as seen in previous events like the men's Euros and VE Day anniversary. The extension also allows pubs to better plan stock and staffing ahead of the tournament, which runs from July 2 to 27 with semi-finals on July 22 and 23 and the final on July 27.