Norwegian authorities intend to find a solution that will allow bars and restaurants to sell beer and other alcoholic beverages during nighttime broadcasts of matches at the 2026 World Cup, Idman.Biz reports.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store told Norwegian broadcaster NRK that there is a tradition in the country of watching football together in pubs, and that the government will find a solution well ahead of the tournament, even if matches are played deep into the night.
The issue is linked to current regulations. Under Norway’s alcohol law, the serving of alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine, is prohibited between 03:00 and 06:00, and consumption of alcohol already served must stop no later than 30 minutes after the end of permitted serving hours.
The 2026 World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the time difference will result in nighttime kickoffs for Norwegian fans. In the group stage, Norway are scheduled to play matches starting at around 00:00 and 02:00 local time, which means current rules could force bars to stop selling alcohol before the games finish.
