DKS said the government wants football lovers to enjoy the matches. (Photo: X/D K Shivakumar)
Karnataka: Bengaluru football fans have yet another reason to rejoice in this FIFA World Cup 2026 season. Government in Karnataka has granted restaurants and hotels hours until 3:30 am to celebrate the best of the sport on these days, so the fans can witness the tournament's most important clashes without early closing time worries.
The relaxation will be applicable on July 14, July 15 and July 19, coinciding with the two semi-finals and the final of the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
The decision meets the special need as a number of FIFA World Cup knockout matches are taking place after midnight in India, because of time zone differences with the host cities of the tournament. The country’s restaurants and hotels must, under normal circumstances, close by 1:00 am in Bengaluru, but the state has granted a one-off relaxation for football fans attending the live screenings.
The move follows a request submitted on the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI)’s behalf to extend business hours for the high level matches.
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Announcing the decision on Tuesday, Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said the government wants football lovers to enjoy the matches while ensuring public safety.
In a post on X, he said the decision was taken while keeping law and order, public safety, and the convenience of citizens as the top priorities. He also urged people to enjoy the matches responsibly and cooperate with the authorities.
The extended timings will apply on:
July 14 – First FIFA World Cup semi-final
July 15 – Second FIFA World Cup semi-final
July 19 – FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
The first semi-final, featuring France and Spain, is scheduled to kick off at 12:30 am (IST) on Wednesday.
As per the special order, hotels, restaurants and pubs can stay open till 3:30 am as opposed to the regular closing time of 1:00 am.
The relaxation is only for serving food and refreshments during match screenings. Hotels and restaurants have also been advised to comply with noise control laws and to not disturb nearby residential areas.
To curb the expected crowds that would come out late at night, special patrol teams have been put in place by the Bengaluru City Police in key commercial and nightlife areas such as Indiranagar, Koramangala and MG Road.
Officials said that the special permission has been granted as a temporary exemption, where sufficient security measures have been organised to keep peace and order, and to avert any untoward incidents during the celebrations.
Apart from being great for the football supporters, it will also help Bengaluru's hospitality sector. Sports bars, restaurants and cafes are preparing for the influx of visitors as fans get together to watch the most-watched matches of the FIFA World Cup tournament.
It's no surprise FIFA World Cup fever has taken over the city on the eve of the biggest football tournament across the globe and with extended operating hours, customers can be served during one of the most-watched sporting events of the year.
