It may still be a few months away, but pubs across the East Midlands are already urging fans to book early to watch the World Cup, with many venues nearing capacity.
Pubs and clubs boasting big screens, spacious beer gardens and dedicated fan zones say tickets are being snapped up quickly as supporters rush to secure spots for the early group games, keen to watch Thomas Tuchel’s side with friends at their local.
England kick off their campaign against Croatia in Dallas, Texas, on June 17, and pubs report that availability for the opener is already limited. The match gets under way at 9pm UK time.
Some venues say demand at this stage is stronger than it was ahead of previous tournaments.
The World Cup will be staged across the United States, Mexico and Canada, with England’s three group matches all kicking off at either 9pm or 10pm UK time.
Pubs have welcomed changes to licensing rules announced in February, which will allow them to serve alcohol until 1am for matches starting between 5pm and 9pm, and until 2am for later fixtures kicking off between 9pm and 10pm if any of the home nations reach the knockout stages.
The move followed amendments to earlier proposals, ensuring fans watching evening knockout matches can also benefit from extended opening hours.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “If our boys are on the pitch, we want our fans to stay in the pub.
“We won’t have fans coming home before football does.”
Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, described the change as a “welcome and pragmatic step” to support the hospitality sector.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, added: “There’s nothing quite like watching the beautiful game in your local, so giving fans the chance to gather for more matches close to home is a win for pubs, jobs and community spirit.
“This Government decision, alongside the recently passed Licensing Hours Extension Act which we supported, recognises the irreplaceable role pubs play in bringing people together and creating an atmosphere nowhere else can match.”
