Pubs can stay open until 30 minutes after the end of England’s World Cup quarter final against Norway, the government has said.
An extension to licensing laws mean fans will be able to watch the full game in pubs in England and Wales even if the kick-off is delayed.
A previous change to the regulations means pubs can keep serving until 0200 for kick offs from 2200 onwards but there are reports that the match in Miami, due to kick off at 2200 UK time on Saturday, could start late due to extreme heat.
The new rule means the doors to pubs can remain open even if a delayed game goes to extra time or penalties.
Policing minister Sarah Jones said:
“England fans deserve the chance to watch every minute of the quarter-final together, and that is exactly what our extension guarantees.
“After the weather delay we saw before the Mexico game, we want to give fans and venues complete certainty that no-one will miss a moment of the action.”
The extension for pubs staying open until 30 minutes after the final whistle will also apply if England win against Norway and reach the semi-finals and final.
The government previously allowed pubs to stay open until 5am for the Mexico v England World Cup game. The match was due to start at 0100 BST but it was delayed until 0200.
Extended licensing hours during the World Cup is proving beneficial to hospitality venues. Research conducted earlier in the football competition showed pubs and bars in the UK enjoyed a 90% uplift in sales compared to normal periods.