The announcement that England’s group stage matches in the World Cup will kick off before midnight is a “welcome boost” for pubs and bars, the boss of an industry body has said.

There had been some concerns among fans that late fixtures could curtail celebrations as next summer’s tournament will take place in the US, Canada and Mexico, meaning some games will not start until 3am UK time.

Dates, kick off times and stadiums for group stage matches were confirmed on Saturday, with Thomas Tuchel’s side to face Croatia at 9pm UK time on June 17, 3pm local time in Texas, at the home of the Dallas Cowboys NFL team.

The second match against Ghana on June 23 is a 4pm kick-off in Boston, 9pm in the UK, while the final group game against Panama at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a 5pm kick-off local time – 10pm in the UK on June 27.

Kate Nicholls, the chairwoman of UK Hospitality, said: “This news is a welcome boost for the hospitality industry.

“Everyone knows that if you aren’t able to attend the game itself, your local pub or bar is the next best place to do it.”

But there are concerns that venues in Scotland risk missing out on that boost with later kick-offs for their national team.

There will be late nights for armchair fans watching Scotland’s games, with the opening game against Haiti in Boston kicking off at 9pm local time – 2am on June 14 back at home.

The second game against Morocco on June 19 is also in Boston, kicking off at 6pm – 11pm in the UK, and in the final group match they will take on Brazil in Miami on June 24, again at 6pm, or 11pm in the UK.

Paul Togneri, of the Scottish Beer and Pub Association, called for flexibility from licensing boards following the announcement.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment for Scotland fans and should be a major boost for Scotland’s pubs, but with kick-offs at 11pm and 2am, that opportunity is at risk,” he said.

“Each match should give an estimated £3 million boost to Scotland’s pubs but we need licensing boards to show flexibility and allow pubs to open their doors, that’s why we’re calling for temporary licensing statements for the whole of the tournament.

“People will rightly want to come together and celebrate, like they did a few weeks ago when we qualified. Let’s make sure they can do that in a safe, regulated environment, and give our pubs a chance to benefit from this incredible occasion. No Pubs, No Party.”

Football fans across the UK may appreciate the 8pm kick-off for the final, which will take place at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.

For England and Wales, the Government on Thursday launched a consultation on extending pub licensing hours for the tournament next summer.

If approved, already licensed venues could have their licensing hours extended for the semi-finals and final until 1am, if matches for England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland kick-off at 9pm or earlier UK time.

The power was recently employed for the Women’s Euros in summer and it was also used during the King’s coronation in 2023.

Ms Nicholls said: “Big sporting events always provide a sales boost for the sector and operators will be pulling out all the stops to ensure fans get the very best experience, as they come together to cheer on the home nations teams this summer.”

Last Updated:December 07, 2025, 00:09 IST

Kamath’s 7,000-square-foot home in one of Bengaluru’s most exclusive apartment buildings, gives a glimpse into how India’s young billionaires live

In the busy city of Bengaluru, known for its tech hubs and start-ups, one name stands out – Nikhil Kamath. He is the co-founder of Zerodha, one of India’s most successful online brokerage firms. Starting in his 20s, Kamath built his business into a giant in the finance world, making him one of India’s youngest billionaires. As of 2025, Forbes estimates his net worth at around $2.5 billion.

But it’s not just his wealth that grabs attention. Kamath’s 7,000-square-foot home in Kingfisher Towers, one of Bengaluru’s most exclusive apartment buildings, gives a glimpse into how India’s young billionaires live. The apartment is a mix of comfort, style, and quiet luxury, showing that Kamath enjoys the finer things without needing to be flashy.

Bengaluru’s Poshest Neighborhood

Kingfisher Towers is a 34-storey luxury building in central Bengaluru, home to some of the city’s wealthiest residents. From Kamath’s apartment, the city stretches out in every direction, offering views of Bengaluru’s skyline that are both relaxing and inspiring. Living here means being in the middle of the action while enjoying privacy and security.

Elegant Interiors

Inside, the apartment is decorated in calm, neutral colours like white, beige, and soft greys. Wooden touches and modern art pieces give the home a warm and stylish feel. The living room, for example, is both elegant and inviting, perfect for relaxing or entertaining friends and family.

A Balcony Made for Relaxation

One of the home’s standout features is the balcony. With a wooden deck, a small canopy bed, candle stands, and plenty of plants, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or take in the city view. It’s a quiet corner that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of Bengaluru’s streets below.

Rooms That Feel Special

The bedrooms match the rest of the apartment in style and comfort. One bedroom has a canopy bed on a wooden floor and floral wall prints that add a personal touch. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in sunlight and offer sweeping city views, making every morning feel bright and calm.

A Home That Reflects His Journey

Kamath’s home isn’t just about space or luxury, it reflects his journey as a self-made billionaire. He built Zerodha with his brother Nitin Kamath in 2010, creating a platform that now serves millions of active users across India. His wealth also comes from other investments, including True Beacon and various asset management ventures.

The 7,000-square-foot apartment in Kingfisher Towers shows that Kamath values comfort, elegance, and practicality. It’s a place designed to unwind after long days of running one of India’s largest brokerage firms. For many, it’s inspiring to see how a young entrepreneur can achieve so much and create a home that reflects both success and personal style.

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Bengaluru’s Poshest Neighborhood

Kingfisher Towers is a 34-storey luxury building in central Bengaluru, home to some of the city’s wealthiest residents. From Kamath’s apartment, the city stretches out in every direction, offering views of Bengaluru’s skyline that are both relaxing and inspiring. Living here means being in the middle of the action while enjoying privacy and security.

Elegant Interiors

Inside, the apartment is decorated in calm, neutral colours like white, beige, and soft greys. Wooden touches and modern art pieces give the home a warm and stylish feel. The living room, for example, is both elegant and inviting, perfect for relaxing or entertaining friends and family.

A Balcony Made for Relaxation

One of the home’s standout features is the balcony. With a wooden deck, a small canopy bed, candle stands, and plenty of plants, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or take in the city view. It’s a quiet corner that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of Bengaluru’s streets below.

Rooms That Feel Special

The bedrooms match the rest of the apartment in style and comfort. One bedroom has a canopy bed on a wooden floor and floral wall prints that add a personal touch. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in sunlight and offer sweeping city views, making every morning feel bright and calm.

A Home That Reflects His Journey

Kamath’s home isn’t just about space or luxury, it reflects his journey as a self-made billionaire. He built Zerodha with his brother Nitin Kamath in 2010, creating a platform that now serves millions of active users across India. His wealth also comes from other investments, including True Beacon and various asset management ventures.

The 7,000-square-foot apartment in Kingfisher Towers shows that Kamath values comfort, elegance, and practicality. It’s a place designed to unwind after long days of running one of India’s largest brokerage firms. For many, it’s inspiring to see how a young entrepreneur can achieve so much and create a home that reflects both success and personal style.

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