Friday February 13th 2026
Glasgow City Chambers
Written by Glasgow View Reporter, Liam Eunson
The Leader of Glasgow City Council has welcomed the decision of the City of Glasgow Licensing Board to grant a general trading extension to on‑sale licensed premises for this year’s World Cup matches.
The move would allow clubs, pubs and other on‑sales venues, that already televise sport, to remain open and trading, if they wished, for up to an additional 30 minutes after final whistle/end of play, for the duration of the tournament, that starts on 11, June 2026.
In what has been dubbed ‘a once‑in‑a‑generation event,’ for Scotland, the extension is expected to provide a timely boost to Glasgow’s hospitality sector, recognising the important role that licensed venues play in bringing people together for major sporting moments.
It gives residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy and celebrate not only Scotland’s long‑awaited return to the World Cup, but the swell of support for other nations, in Scotland’s most diverse city.
The Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Susan Aitken, said; “Glasgow is the home of Scottish football, and there’s a real sense of pride and anticipation across the city, as we look forward to Scotland’s World Cup journey.
“This is a moment supporters have waited a long time for and the Licensing Board’s decision to offer a general extension strikes the right balance between supporting our city’s hospitality sector and giving people the chance to come together and enjoy the tournament.
“The extended hours will provide an opportunity for the licensed trade to capitalise on this moment, if they wish, and give a boost to the wider local economy at a moment of huge excitement for fans.”
Bailie Margaret Morgan, Chair of the Licensing Board said; “Scotland’s participation in the World Cup, is an event of national significance and a chance for the city to celebrate Scotland’s success. It will undoubtedly create exciting new memories for fans of football. It is also an opportunity for our diverse communities to come together to support other national teams in the tournament.
“Licensed venues know their clientele best and how to provide a well‑managed environment to show the World Cup, where everyone can be part of the occasion and enjoy the experience.”
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