• Pubs will stay open till 1am as England’s Lionesses bid to become back-to-back European Champions
• Pubs hours can be relaxed by government to mark moments of national significance

Pubs across the country will be able to keep taps flowing later into the night this Sunday, as the Lionesses aim to continue their reign as European Champions.  

Following their dramatic win over Italy earlier this week, England will face Spain in the final of the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship in Switzerland at 5pm BST. 

Prior to the tournament, the government announced pub licensing hours will be extended should England or Wales qualify for the semi-finals or final.  

This move allows licensed premises that would normally close at 11pm to keep serving until 1am and was an option taken by many pubs across the country for the semi-final on Tuesday.  

The government has now confirmed that pubs will be able to continue serving late into the night on Sunday, with fans coming together across the country to cheer the Lionesses on.

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association 

 “We fully support the Home Secretary’s decision to extend licensing hours for Sunday night’s UEFA Euro 2024 final. This move recognises the cultural and economic importance of our pubs, bars and night time venues, which will be at the centre of national celebrations as fans come together to cheer on the Lionesses. 

“The extended trading hours will offer a vital boost to hospitality businesses that have worked hard to create safe, welcoming environments throughout the tournament. It’s a sensible and symbolic gesture that acknowledges the exceptional significance of this event. 

“Moments like these unite communities, lift national morale, and highlight the value of the UK’s vibrant night time economy. We encourage everyone to support their local venues, enjoy the game responsibly, and make the most of what promises to be an unforgettable evening of football and celebration. Come on England- let’s bring it home!”

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

“The Lionesses have shown throughout this summer why they are true national stars. They have shown unbelievable grit and determination and are an inspiration to us all. 

“Watching football in the local pub is a great British tradition and by extending licensing hours, we will hopefully be able to celebrate late into the evening.  

“I want to wish the best of luck to Sarina Wiegman and the England squad, who we hope will be able to bring it home once again and continue on as champions of Europe.”  

Licensing hours in pubs can be relaxed the Home Secretary for occasions of “exceptional national significance” and this extension has been welcomed by the hospitality industry. 

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association: 

“The pub is home of sport and these extended hours will mean more can gather together to cheer on the Lionesses and could mean an extra 1 million pints sold.  

“Our sector plays a huge part in boosting community spirit and championing inclusivity in sport, and we expect the pubs will be packed by those cheering on our fantastic squads.” 

Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said:  

“It is fantastic that the Lionesses are in the final of the UEFA Women’s EURO’s on Sunday, and we wholeheartedly welcome the Home Office’s decision to extend licensing hours to accommodate the match. 

“It will give fans the chance to watch the game together and hospitality businesses will receive a welcome boost, with evidence from extending hours for previous major sporting events demonstrating a notable 46% boost in sales during finals. 

“The growth in the popularity of women’s sport has been phenomenal over the past few years, and venues have made a huge effort for the Women’s EUROs, not only on match days but during the entire tournament.”