CIPD advises employers to clarify arrangements, while legal experts warn against inconsistent absence management and discrimination risks
3 July 2026
Employers are being urged to set clear expectations with staff ahead of England’s 1am World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico on Monday, amid warnings the overnight kick off could lead to fatigue, lateness and sickness absence.
With the 6 July match potentially finishing after 3am if it goes to extra time and penalties, organisations are being advised to decide in advance how they will handle requests for flexibility and ensure arrangements are applied consistently.
Pubs and bars across England and Wales have also been given government approval to stay open until 5am for the match, after the home secretary used powers reserved for occasions of "exceptional international, national or local significance” to extend licensing hours nationwide.
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David D’Souza, director of profession at the CIPD, said employers were under no obligation to make special arrangements. “However, some may choose to offer flexibility where this works for the business and does not impact performance. The key is setting clear expectations ahead of time,” he added.
D’Souza explained that any flexible arrangements should be agreed in advance, applied fairly and aligned with business needs. “Employees should not assume arrangements will...
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