The Delhi government has allowed restaurants, cafes and bars across the capital to remain open until 4am on Monday to facilitate live shows of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Prime Minister Rekha Gupta announced the decision on Saturday, a day before the title match between defending champions Argentina and Spain, scheduled to be held in New York.
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In a post on X, Gupta said the relaxation was part of the Delhi government’s 24×7 business-friendly operating framework, which was introduced under the ease of practice business reforms. “Every football fan has watched Lionel Messi create history. Now, history has another story to tell. A legend. A teenage prodigy. One trophy. One night that generations will remember. Delhi is ready for that night,” she wrote using the hashtag #FIFAWorldCup2026.
The government said the extended hours were intended to provide greater flexibility for football fans to gather in dining venues and bars and experience the final together. “With the city’s 24/7 business-friendly operating framework already in place under our government’s business reform facility, restaurants, cafes and other eligible establishments across the capital can welcome fans until 4am this weekend, making it easier for the city to experience football’s biggest night together,” Gupta added.
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The temporary relaxation is expected to greatly benefit hospitality establishments that organized late-night screening events across the city.
Sandeep Goyal, president of the Delhi wing of the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), said that although the announcement was made with little time, it is a welcome move according to restaurant owners.
“The decision was announced on Saturday while the event was on Sunday. Although it is a short time, we welcome the decision and are happy to relax. Restaurants are already making arrangements for the show and the industry is gearing up for one of the biggest nights of the year. Hundreds of restaurants will be holding shows, especially in core restaurant hubs,” Goyal said.
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NRAI officials said sports bars and restaurants that routinely show matches have already applied for permissions, which include Baardos and Dear Donna in Qutab Corporate Area, Pebble Street in New Friends’ Colony (NFC), Gully Labs in Lajpat Nagar, Cozy Box in Netaji Nagar, Open Tap, Beyoung Brewgarden, Dirty Good and others. Most restaurants and bars will not ask for any additional fees for viewing the match.
A senior police officer from Delhi Police Headquarters said that security arrangements have been made for smooth traffic arrangements on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. “Delhi Police will maintain security measures in place for restaurant owners and customers till such time as the places are open. We will ensure that no untoward incident occurs. All employees have been sensitized,” the officer said.
