Only one Wetherspoon pub in London will stay open for England's World Cup match against Mexico, which kicks off at 1am on Monday morning. The vast majority of the chain's outlets in the capital will remain closed due to staffing shortages and depleted beer stocks, leaving fans with limited options for watching the game in a pub setting.
The match, a round-of-16 clash in the 2026 World Cup, is being played in Mexico, meaning a late kick-off time for UK viewers. While the government has confirmed that pubs can stay open until 5am to accommodate the fixture, many venues have decided not to extend their hours. Wetherspoon, one of the UK's largest pub chains, has taken a particularly cautious approach, with only one of its London pubs—the Moon Under Water in Leicester Square—planning to open for the game.
The decision reflects broader challenges facing the hospitality industry. Staffing issues have been a persistent problem for pubs and restaurants since the pandemic, with many struggling to recruit and retain workers. The late-night timing of the match adds further pressure, as it requires staff to work unsocial hours and may not generate enough additional revenue to justify the cost. Depleted beer stocks, partly due to supply chain disruptions and increased demand during the World Cup, have also contributed to the decision.
For fans hoping to watch the match in a pub, the options are limited. While some independent venues and other chains may open, the lack of availability from a major operator like Wetherspoon means many supporters will have to watch at home or in other settings. The Moon Under Water in Leicester Square will open from 12.30am, serving food and drink until the final whistle, but it is expected to be extremely busy.
The government's decision to allow pubs to stay open until 5am was intended to give fans more flexibility and support the hospitality sector. However, the reality on the ground is that many pubs have chosen not to take advantage of the extended hours. Industry experts say this is a pragmatic response to the challenges of operating late-night services, including higher costs, security concerns, and the need to manage staff rotas.
England's match against Mexico is one of the most anticipated games of the tournament, with both teams having strong records in the competition. The Three Lions, managed by Thomas Tuchel, will face a hostile atmosphere in Mexico's home stadium, adding to the drama. For UK fans, the early morning kick-off has already sparked discussions about how to manage sleep and work commitments, with some reports suggesting millions of Brits may call in sick on Monday.
The decision by Wetherspoon to close most of its London pubs for the match is likely to disappoint many fans, but it underscores the practical realities of running a hospitality business during a major sporting event. As the World Cup continues, the industry will be watching closely to see how other late-night fixtures are handled, and whether more venues will choose to open for future games.
