BBPA Issues World Cup Guidance

The British Beer & Pub Association has issued new national guidance for pubs and bars preparing to screen 2026 FIFA World Cup fixtures. Developed with UKHospitality, the BII, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and supported by National Pubwatch and Best Bar None, the guidance covers match screenings between 11 June and 19 July and is aimed at pubs in England and Wales.

The Institute of Licensing provided targeted input to ensure the guidance reflects regulatory expectations and supports consistent decision making across England and Wales.

Operators are urged to engage early with police and licensing officers, review licence conditions and submit any required TENs promptly. The guidance stresses the need for clear capacity planning, strong management controls and a documented risk assessment.

Staffing and alcohol management remain central. Venues are advised to ensure the DPS or a personal licence holder is on duty, brief staff thoroughly and put firm measures in place to prevent excessive drinking. Entry control, avoiding overcrowding and using SIA registered door supervisors where appropriate are all highlighted. The guidance reiterates that serving a drunk person — or buying alcohol for someone who is already drunk — is a criminal offence. A section on counter terrorism highlights the need for staff vigilance and clear reporting routes, noting that licensed premises remain potential targets and that risk assessments should reflect current threat levels.

The BBPA encourages all operators to complete and retain a full risk assessment ahead of the tournament.