UK nightclubs should host World Cup 2026 fanzones, NTIA says

UK nightclubs could be the perfect setting for World Cup 2026 fanzones, the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has said.

Next year's FIFA World Cup is set to be held between the US, Canada, and Mexico, with time differences ranging between eight and five hours behind the UK in those territories, fixtures could go on until the early hours of the morning.

With many venues already hosting late licenses, alongside the capacity and existing production capabilities to host large-scale watch-alongs, the NTIA says that nightclubs are "ready" to host 2026 tournament fixtures.

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“The 2026 World Cup is perfectly timed for the UK’s nightlife sector," says NTIA CEO Michael Kill. "With many fixtures kicking off late, our existing licensed hours already support most of the tournament, meaning clubs and live music venues are ready to host large-scale screenings without the need for significant licensing changes.”

“These spaces are built for atmosphere, safety, and community," he continues. "They have the soundsystems, screens, staffing, security, and late-night expertise to deliver unforgettable match experiences." 

According to a report from The Mirror, the 2022 World Cup, hosted in Qatar, added £2 billion to the UK economy, with £1 billion spent on food and drink alone.

While nightclubs often host watch-a-longs during major tournaments, the NTIA hopes that with fixtures potentially taking place later, during operating hours, nightclubs could see a much-needed boost from World Cup fever in the UK.

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"For a sector still grappling with financial pressures, the tournament offers a vital commercial opportunity and a chance to bring people together in a way few other settings can achieve,” Kill's statement adds.

The NTIA is now calling on the UK government to back plans for nightlife venues to host World Cup 2026 screenings, and ensure "straightforward pathways" for any additional licensing requirements.

"The night time economy stands ready to play a central role in making the 2026 World Cup a unifying and prosperous moment for communities across the UK,” Kill says.

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, follow her on Twitter