The 2026 World Cup is set to disrupt work routines across Britain, with England's matches starting as late as 10pm and Scotland's first game kicking off at 2am. Employers are preparing for a surge in absenteeism, as millions of fans plan to watch the matches live, often sacrificing sleep. Research indicates that over half of UK fans intend to follow the tournament in real-time, with 26% willing to stay up past 11pm. Pubs across the UK have applied for late licenses, with some open until 5am, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere but also raising concerns about drunken disorder. The Government has granted blanket permission for pubs to extend their hours during knockout stages, allowing them to serve until 1am or 2am depending on match times. This decision has been welcomed by industry leaders, who see it as a boost for community spirit and local businesses. However, the anticipated impact on workplaces is significant, with forecasts suggesting that over 3.6 million sick days could be taken during the tournament, costing employers around £94 million in sick pay.