Multiple primary and secondary schools across the United Kingdom have announced delayed opening times on Monday, July 6, 2026, following England's late-night World Cup match against Mexico.
The game kicks off at 1:00 a. m.
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Institutions in London, Salford, the Midlands, County Durham, and East Yorkshire are pushing registration times back to as late as 11:25 a.
m. The move aims to accommodate families who plan to watch the match together.
Tuchel Encourages Late-Night Viewing
England head coach Thomas Tuchel sparked the discussion during a press conference by publicly supporting late-night viewing for young fans.
"Write an excuse for school and let them watch football," Tuchel said.
The manager emphasized the rarity of the tournament. "Come on, there's so much school to go to, but we'll have this every four years.
Let them watch. There will be a big, big match," he added.
Tuchel reiterated the need for public support. "We need the support of everyone and especially of the children," he said.
Government Response: Schools Should Stay Open
Government officials responded directly to Tuchel's statements, maintaining that classrooms should remain populated on Monday morning. "It is up to parents to make their own decisions.
We want everyone to enjoy the game but children should be at school on Monday," a spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office said.
The spokesperson noted that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faced the same scheduling conflict.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson clarified that the central government would not issue mandatory directives but urged parents to maintain regular attendance.
