Ontario delays 'last orders' during World Cup

General view of the official FIFA World Cup 2026 match balls during training. REUTERS

Licensed restaurants and bars in Ontario will be allowed to stay open later during the World Cup after its government agreed on Tuesday to extend the sale of alcohol across the Canadian province until 4am.

The provincial capital Toronto's BMO Field will host six matches, including Canada's opening game with Bosnia on Jun 12, and the temporary extension will apply from Jun 11 until Jul 19, the day of the World Cup final.

"Extending last call during the World Cup will help Ontario deliver a safe, vibrant and welcoming experience for fans from around the world," Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming Stan Cho said in a statement.

"As Ontario welcomes visitors for this global event, this measure will give people more time to enjoy our world-class bars and restaurants while supporting the province's tourism sector."

Ontario's last call for alcohol service is usually 2am and the province previously temporarily extended alcohol service hours in February, with bars opening earlier to allow fans watch the men's ice hockey final between Canada and the United States at the Winter Olympics.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the US begins on Jun 11.