East Dunbartonshire pubs to stay open later during World Cup

Licensed premises in East Dunbartonshire where customers can watch this summer’s World Cup will be allowed longer opening hours for this purpose.

The local licensing board agreed to permit longer hours for such venues, in light of the Scottish mens’ team having qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. the first time since 1998.

With the tournament taking place in the USA and Mexico, the time difference means Scotland’s group matches will start at 11pm or 2am GMT. The opening match is scheduled for June 11 with the final set for July 19.

The licensing board’s extension, which covers all matches at the World Cup and not just Scotland games, means that venues already permitted to show live televised sports events have the option of remaining open until 30 minutes after the match ends.

Earlier this year, the council consulted license holders, emergency services, community councils and others, and several conditions are in place to ensure minimal disruption arises from the extended opening hours.

Participating venues will be required to notify the licensing board in advance with details of the matches they intend to show, and this information will be passed on to police. They are also expected to make suitable transport arrangements for staff to return home afterwards.