Calls mount to let Scottish pubs screen late-night World Cup matches

After a thrilling 4-2 win against Denmark on Tuesday, Scotland have qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1998. Now, the trade is calling for late licenses so fans can enjoy the squad’s matches in the 2026 tournament.

Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader Alex Cole Hamilton called for pubs to be given “special dispensation” to screen Scotland’s 2026 World Cup matches late at night following their historic win against Denmark earlier this week.

“Huge fan parks could be set up across the country so we can gather to watch our games on the biggest screens in stadiums or parks. Pubs could be given special dispensation to show their matches in the event that they are scheduled for late at night,” he said.

Scottish Liberal Democrat sport spokesperson Neil Alexander added: “I could see people packing into community sports clubs. After a tough few years for pubs and clubs, what an opportunity this is for the government to work with them to make the most of this amazing achievement.”

The tournament will be hosted in North America, with a time difference of at least five hours. Kick off times are likely to be at 5pm, 8pm, 11pm and 2am.

Dougal Sharp, founder and master brewer at Edinburgh-based Innis & Gunn, has backed Hamilton’s call, calling Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup a “defining moment for this generation”.

“Scots haven’t waited almost 30 years to watch it half-asleep on a tiny screen at home. These games deserve atmosphere, noise, and people coming together across the nation to back the boys in North America,” he said.

“If kick-offs fall in the middle of the night, then extending opening hours would be a hugely positive step, not just for pubs and breweries, but for fans and communities across the country. Big moments in Scottish football are meant to be shared, and by extending licenses we can give people the chance to gather safely, celebrate properly, and support local venues at the same time – it’s a win for everyone.

“And let’s be honest, the way things are going, we should probably be preparing for a long run deep into the tournament. There’s no harm in being ready for a wee bit of history. So, to those in power, don’t miss this open goal, and give the pub trade – and the nation – another reason to celebrate.”

The Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) has also welcomed calls to give pubs and bars special dispensation for the matches next summer.

Colin Wilkinson, SLTA managing director, said: “We urge local authorities and licensing boards across Scotland to put special measures in place to enable the nation to share in our national football team’s success in reaching their first World Cup for 28 years and hope that our pubs and bars will be allowed to open and show games late at night.

“The best place for fans to watch these games will be in our local pubs and bars where the atmosphere will be electric, you’ll be among friends and will no doubt make new ones. After all, not everyone will be able to travel to the USA, Canada or Mexico.

Wilkinson argued that amid the “doom and gloom” faced by the UK at the moment, a few extra hours of business for pubs and bars will boost businesses, “particularly the small, independent operators”.

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