Thursday 30 April 2026 4:00 pm
London music venues are making the most of early pub closures during the FIFA World Cup by opening their doors for football fans. Outernet, Electric Brixton, and Colour Factory are hosting England and Scotland matches, as well as knockout ties, while many pubs in the capital are forced to shut by 11pm on weekdays.
Late Kick-Offs and Extended Licences
The World Cup, co-hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, features late kick-offs that extend past the typical 11pm closing time for pubs. The government has promised extended opening hours for pubs if England or Scotland reach the knockout stages, but music venues are seizing the opportunity with what is being called Kick Off Club.
Organiser Charlie Holden told City AM: “Kick Off Club will maximise our venue’s late licences. We are turning every match into a full-length experience that keeps the energy high from before kick off to long after the final whistle.”
Holden added: “From London’s largest indoor screen at Here, Outernet to the warehouse feel of Colour Factory with its 90s rave-energy theme and a bold Britpop atmosphere at Electric Brixton, each space offers a distinct and immersive way to experience the game.”
World Cup – Coming Home?
Home Nations interest begins with Scotland’s match against Haiti, with a 2am kick-off prompting Scottish First Minister John Swinney to pledge a bank holiday for the following Monday. Scotland then faces Morocco and Brazil, both with 11pm kick-offs.
England starts against Croatia at 9pm, followed by Ghana at the same time, and concludes their group phase against Panama at 10pm. Thomas Tuchel’s side will aim to progress through the tournament, with music venues ready to host fans throughout.
