Swedish pubs may stay open until 5 AM for World Cup matches as municipalities ease restrictions

Swedish pubs and restaurants could remain open until 5 AM to screen this summer’s FIFA World Cup matches, after several municipalities announced they would consider late-night exemptions for licensed venues. The move follows Sweden’s dramatic qualification victory over Poland on Tuesday, which has sparked a surge in demand from fans eager to watch the team’s matches—many of which kick off in the early hours of the morning.

According to a report by SVT Nyheter, bars and restaurants—typically required to close by 1 AM—can now apply for extended permits to serve alcohol until 5 AM during the tournament. Some cities, including Gothenburg, are even proposing to allow sales beyond 5 AM, defying the usual nationwide cutoff at 11 AM.

Stockholm sports bar manager Atila Korkmaz told SVT he would submit an application immediately, citing overwhelming interest since Sweden secured its World Cup spot. “It’s been non-stop calls—maybe 500 yesterday alone,” he said. “The atmosphere will be the same as when we beat Poland. People are really excited.”

With Sweden’s group-stage matches scheduled for 1 AM and 4 AM local time, Korkmaz expects packed venues despite the late hours. “The energy will be incredible,” he said. Fan Nora Haldenius, 23, agreed: “It’s going to be amazing. I’m so pumped.”

Municipalities will review applications on a case-by-case basis, potentially imposing conditions such as additional security or adjusted service protocols. Örebro politician John Johansson (Social Democrats) argued that forcing bars to close at halftime would be impractical, signaling broad political support for the flexibility.

The World Cup, hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, begins in June. Sweden’s qualification has triggered a wave of bookings, with venues bracing for high demand during the tournament’s unconventional European time slots.