Pubs across Britain want the government to relax licensing laws on Sunday to allow for earlier alcohol sales ahead of England's Women’s World Cup showdown with Spain.
Representing over 20,000 pubs, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) is advocating for the sale of drinks before kick-off to foster a vibrant atmosphere of unity and support for the Lionesses.
Such a change would require temporary amendments to existing licensing laws and while adjustments to these laws have been made in the past for significant occasions, the current parliamentary recess poses a challenge for immediate implementation.
With kick-off set for 11am, pubs are hoping to start pouring pints from 10am.
Expected to boost the economy by £185 million this weekend, England beat hosts Australia 3-1 on Wednesday to set up a final against Spain, giving a chance for the Lionesses to become Euro and the World Cup champions at the same time.
UK Hospitality forecasts that an additional million patrons will gather to cheer for the Lionesses in what would be a much-needed boost for pubs, which have faced huge numbers of closures since the pandemic.