Pubs to stay open late for European Championship final as Brits cheer on Lionesses
Pubs have been granted permission to stay open until 1am on Sunday as the Lionesses play in the European Championship final.
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The Home Office confirmed yesterday that licensing hours will be extended across England and Wales as the defending champions meet Spain in the Euro 2025 final.
Fans are expected to buy an extra million pints during the final, according to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPC), says MailOnline.
Chief executive Emma McClarkin said: "Our sector plays a huge part in boosting community spirit and championing inclusivity in sport, and we expect the pubs will be packed by those cheering on our fantastic squads."
Licensing hours can be relaxed to mark an occasion of "exceptional national significance".
Read More: Will we get a day off if Lionesses win the Euros?
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "I want to wish the best of luck to Sarina Wiegman and the England squad, who we hope will bring it home once again and continue on as champions of Europe."
Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson previously said: "Nothing quite brings people together like watching our national football teams, which is why we want fans to be able to enjoy every minute of these matches.
"We will extend licensing hours should either team progress through the tournament, to allow supporters to watch and celebrate together for longer."
The Lionesses were on the brink of elimination by Italy when 19-year-old substitute Michelle Agyemang forced extra time, drawing the sides level with an equaliser in the sixth minute of stoppage time to cancel out Barbara Bonansea’s 33rd-minute opener.
The Prince of Wales is set to cheer on the Lionesses at the Euro 2025 finals.
Kensington Palace has confirmed that William is to attend Sunday’s final in Basel in his role as patron of the Football Association.
It comes after football fan William congratulated the reigning champions on their thrilling comeback to reach the final in a last-gasp victory over Italy in extra time in Switzerland on Tuesday.
In a message on X, football fan William wrote: “Brilliant performance @Lionesses! One game from glory! #WEURO2025.”