'Timing is key' | Extra bank holiday if England win the World Cup? What HR needs to know

England’s World Cup campaign has already brought late nights, tired employees and awkward conversations about morning attendance. Should the Three Lions go all the way, HR teams could have an extra bank holiday to contend with too.

Ahead of England’s quarter-final against Norway in Miami on Saturday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has hinted that the Government could declare a one-off public holiday if Thomas Tuchel’s side wins the tournament.

Asked about the possibility, Starmer said: “I don’t think I want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final”. 

England face Norway at 10pm UK time on Saturday, meaning the match could run well beyond midnight if extra time and penalties are required. It follows the team’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico, which kicked off at 2am on Monday morning and left dedicated supporters facing the start of the working week on little sleep.