The UK Government has officially confirmed that no extra Bank Holiday will be granted on Monday if England beats Mexico in the World Cup last-16 match, despite the game kicking off at 1am UK time. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated that children should still attend school, while Communities Secretary Steve Reed urged local councils to extend pub opening hours to accommodate fans.
Government Position on Bank Holiday
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said the Government would be 'backing the England team all the way', but noted that 'the current pattern of bank and public holidays is well established.' The decision comes after Scotland announced an extra Bank Holiday on Monday, June 15, to celebrate the Scottish national team's World Cup debut for the first time in decades.
PM's Comments on Potential Holiday
At the G7 summit in France, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was asked whether he would declare a new Bank Holiday if England wins the World Cup this summer. He said: 'I'm not going to jinx the World Cup. But, you know, the last time we won the World Cup, it was a Labour government. And so it's absolutely clear that we only win World Cups under a Labour government. So let's hope that this is the next opportunity.'
Historical Precedent
No Bank Holiday was awarded in 2022 when England's women secured the Euros trophy for the first time. Sir Keir, then leader of the opposition, had advocated for an additional Bank Holiday should the Lionesses lift the 2023 World Cup, calling it 'a proper day of celebration'. However, after the Lionesses lost 1-0 to Spain in the 2023 World Cup final, the issue became moot. The Labour government also opted not to declare a Bank Holiday when the Lionesses won the Euros in 2025.
Pub Opening Hours Extended
Sir Keir announced that licensing hours will be extended so fans can watch the vital knockout game. He said: 'Football might be coming home, but we're making sure fans don't have to. Pubs staying open till the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together.'
