Pub opening hours could be extended for Women's Euros 2025

Pubs could be allowed to stay open until 1am if the Lionesses reach the final stages of the Women’s Euros this summer.

The Home Office has launched a consultation on extending licensing hours if England or Wales reach the semi-finals or finals of the tournament.

On Sundays, many venues are usually only licensed until 10.30pm.

A four-week consultation has been launched to gather views from pubs, local authorities and members of the public.

The tournament will be held in Switzerland from 2 July to 27 July 2025 with the semi-finals taking place on 22 or 23 July and the final on 27 July.

Dame Diana Johnson, minister for policing, fire and crime prevention, said: “The extension would ensure that those wishing to host a viewing of the matches and potential post-match celebrations are able to do so, which would also provide a welcome boost to pubs and other on-trade businesses.”

England’s Lionesses won the tournament for the first time when it was held in London three years ago.

UKHospitality said extended opening hours during the men’s Euros last year gave pubs a 34% sales boost during the semi-finals and a 46% boost during the final.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “The previous success of the Lionesses has ignited passion for the team across the country, and extending pub hours will allow fans to celebrate together, deliver a welcome boost to businesses and solve any issues presented by the tournament taking place one hour ahead in Switzerland."