⚽ World Cup 2026, Could Your Pub, Bar or Venue Be Taking on More Risk Than You Think?

The FIFA World Cup is finally underway.

For many pubs, bars, clubs and hospitality venues, the tournament represents a welcome opportunity to attract more customers, increase food and drink sales and create a memorable atmosphere.

However, for businesses planning late-night screenings, outdoor viewing areas or larger events, the tournament could also change their risk profile.

Several insurers have recently issued guidance to brokers and hospitality customers ahead of the competition, highlighting that extended trading hours and special events can create additional risks that businesses may need to consider.

Why Insurers Are Paying Attention

The 2026 World Cup is being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Because of the time difference, some fixtures may be shown outside normal trading hours in the UK.

In response, the Government has introduced temporary licensing arrangements allowing certain licensed premises in England and Wales to remain open later for qualifying home nation fixtures.

Insurers have responded by confirming how they will treat these temporary extensions.

The important point for business owners is that while insurers may be flexible regarding opening hours, other policy terms and risk management requirements still apply.

More Customers Usually Means More Exposure

Major sporting events often bring larger crowds, increased alcohol consumption and busier trading conditions.

That can increase the likelihood of:

• Slips, trips and falls
• Accidental property damage
• Crowd management issues
• Customer injuries
• Security incidents
• Alcohol-related disturbances

For many venues, this is one reason why public liability insurance is often considered an important part of managing business risks.

If a customer suffers an injury and alleges the venue was responsible, legal costs and compensation can quickly become expensive.

For businesses unfamiliar with liability cover, our guide to Public Liability Insurance Explained for Small Businesses explains how this type of protection works.

Temporary Changes Can Create New Risks

Several insurers have specifically highlighted temporary screens, outdoor viewing areas and temporary structures as areas that may require additional consideration.

While these additions can improve the customer experience, they may also create new hazards.

Business owners should consider:

• Whether temporary installations are safely secured
• Whether emergency exits remain clear
• Whether viewing areas create overcrowding risks
• Whether the electrical equipment has been safely installed
• Whether outdoor structures are suitable for the expected weather conditions

A simple change to improve the customer experience can sometimes create unintended exposures.

Are Your Staffing Arrangements Ready?

Busy match days often mean bringing in additional staff.

Whether that means temporary bar staff, extra kitchen workers or security personnel, businesses should ensure employees understand:

• Emergency procedures
• Capacity management arrangements
• Incident reporting processes
• Customer safety responsibilities

Businesses should also remember that taking on additional staff can have insurance implications. Employers’ Liability Insurance is a legal requirement for businesses that employ staff, and staffing changes may be worth discussing with your broker.

Good preparation can help reduce the likelihood of incidents or fines occurring during busy trading periods.

Don’t Forget Business Continuity

Most venue owners focus on what happens during a successful event.

Fewer think about what happens if something goes wrong.

A fire, escape of water, major theft or significant property damage during a busy trading period could have a major impact on revenue.

If a venue is forced to close following an insured event, the loss of income can sometimes be more damaging than the physical damage itself. Our guide to Business Interruption Insurance Explained explains how business interruption insurance may respond in certain circumstances following an insured event.

A packed fixture list can quickly become a missed opportunity if a business cannot open its doors.

This is where a Business Continuity Plan and appropriate insurance arrangements can become particularly valuable.

Our article on How a Business Continuity Plan Can Save Your Business explains why preparation matters before a problem occurs.

A Quick World Cup Risk Checklist

• ✓ Opening hours and licensing requirements
• ✓ Staffing levels for expected attendance
• ✓ Capacity management procedures
• ✓ Fire exits and emergency access routes
• ✓ Temporary screens and structures
• ✓ Security arrangements
• ✓ Public liability insurance
• ✓ Business continuity arrangements

The World Cup should be a fantastic opportunity for the hospitality sector.

A little preparation beforehand may help ensure the focus stays on the football rather than an unexpected problem.

If your business is changing its trading pattern, extending opening hours or hosting special events, it may be worth reviewing your insurance arrangements. FSB members can speak to a UK-based adviser on 020 3883 7976.

This content is for general information only and is not intended to provide advice or a personal recommendation. Insurance cover is subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy. Always consider your individual circumstances and seek professional advice before arranging insurance. External websites are not under our control and we are not responsible for their content.