Pubs across Renfrewshire will be allowed to stay open later during Scotland’s World Cup matches this summer after extra licensing hours were agreed.
Renfrewshire Licensing Board has approved an extension which allows venues to remain open for up to 30 minutes after the final whistle of World Cup games.
The move comes as Scotland prepares to play in its first World Cup since 1998, with several matches kicking off late at night due to time differences with the United States, where the 2026 tournament will be held.
In some cases, venues could be open for long stretches of time. For example, a pub that opens at 11am on Saturday 13th June could remain open until around 5.15am on Sunday 14th June to cover Scotland’s opening group match against Haiti.
Local venues which already have permission to show televised sport will be able to apply the extended hours if they meet certain conditions. The extension only applies to indoor areas and venues must notify Renfrewshire Council’s licensing team and Police Scotland at least 48 hours before using the extra hours.
Licensing officials say the change is designed to support the hospitality sector while allowing fans to watch Scotland’s matches in a safe and managed environment.
Councillor Cathy McEwan, convener of Renfrewshire Licensing Board, said: “The World Cup is a moment of huge national pride with Scotland qualifying for the first time since 1998. We want people across Renfrewshire to enjoy the matches in a safe, well-managed environment and today’s decision supports both our hospitality sector and our communities.
“By setting out clear conditions and safeguards, we are striking the right balance between celebration and responsibility, as we all look forward to see Scotland on the world stage once again.”
The additional licensing hours will run during the tournament from Thursday 11th June until Sunday 19th July 2026.
Several of Scotland’s group matches are scheduled to finish in the early hours of the morning in the UK.
| Match | Date | Kick-off (UK) | Approx. finish | Approx. pub closing time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haiti vs Scotland | Sunday 14th June 2026 | 2am | 4.15am | Approx. 5.15am |
| Scotland vs Morocco | Friday 19th June 2026 | 11pm | 2.15am | Approx. 5.15am |
| Scotland vs Brazil | Wednesday 24th June 2026 | 11pm | 2.15am | Approx. 5.15am |
Only premises which already have permission to show televised sport as part of their operating plan can take advantage of the extended hours.
Premises that choose not to stay open later are not required to take part in the scheme.