Highland Pubs Face Licensing Decisions for World Cup Broadcasts
Hundreds of pubs and bars across the Highlands are set to learn next week whether they will be permitted to remain open during Scotland's matches at the men's 2026 World Cup.
The Highland licensing board will consider whether to assess individual applications for extended opening hours or to approve a blanket extension for all on-sales premises.
According to a report prepared for Tuesday's meeting, officials noted that the first option would increase staff workload and require a £10 application fee per premises.
The report states that more than 530 on-sales venues within the Highland Council area currently include televised sport in their operating plans.
If the board opts for a general extension, members must also decide whether the extension should apply solely to Scotland games or be extended to other matches in the tournament.
Officials have recommended that any licensed premises intending to utilize a general extension complete an online notification form.
Council Rejects Additional Holiday for Scotland's World Cup Match
Last week, Highland councillors voted against granting an extra day off this summer to mark Scotland's first match at the World Cup.
First Minister John Swinney had previously proposed designating Monday, 15 June, as a national bank holiday, a proposal that was later approved by the King.
However, a report to Highland Council's corporate resources committee indicated that the estimated cost of approving the day of leave could reach £150,000.
Officials also highlighted that approving the holiday might disrupt essential services, including bin collections and schools.
