A poll of 2,000 adults found that half of Brits will avoid watching World Cup games at the pub this year, with late kick-offs and pricey pints taking a toll on turnout at local pubsOliver Lewis16:33, 16 Jun 2026Updated 16:35, 16 Jun 2026Half of Brits are set to give watching World Cup matches at the pub a miss this year, as late kick-offs and steep pint prices take their toll on attendance.‌A poll of 2,000 adults revealed that 33% plan to watch World Cup games from the comfort of their own home, with 16% citing the inconvenient match times as their main gripe.‌For 15%, the cost of a round is putting them off heading out this year, while 7% admit they're simply less interested in this year's tournament compared to previous ones.‌This could leave pub landlords short of nearly £33 per customer — the average amount spent per game during the last World Cup.Among those who do plan to venture out, the latest kick-off they'd be willing to stay up for is around 9pm, suggesting that later games could see many fans staying firmly on their sofas.‌The research was commissioned by Simply Business to mark the launch of 'The Best Seat in the House', a campaign urging the public to get behind their local pubs at a time when they need support the most.The campaign will feature an installation at The Bricklayer's Arms in Putney from 16th June, inviting pub-goers to pledge to watch a match at their favourite independent local, with the most popular venue scooping £5,000.Former Arsenal and England midfielder Ray Parlour, who previously co-owned a pub, said: "Pubs and football go hand in hand. There's nothing quite like being in your local, cheering on your team and celebrating with friends and strangers alike over a last-minute winner.‌"I know first-hand what it takes to keep a pub going and right now landlords are fighting harder than ever just to keep the doors open."Alongside other small businesses, these aren't faceless organisations; they're people who've put everything into serving their communities and they need our support."For 17%, work commitments are proving a stumbling block, making it increasingly difficult to watch matches at the pub.‌Chris Walsh, landlord at the Bricklayer's Arms, added: "For us, running a pub is about so much more than just pouring pints. Great independent pubs like ours are the absolute beating heart of their communities."There's an unmatched magic when everyone gathers under one roof to cheer on a team and there's nowhere quite like the pub during a massive summer of football."‌"The reality is that the hospitality industry is facing an incredibly tougxh period ahead," Chris added. "Initiatives like Simply Business's 'Best Seat in the House' campaign are a lifeline, giving independent pubs a real boost right when they need it most."So, please go online and nominate your favourite pub - it would really mean the world."Altogether, 42% believe late kick-offs will have a direct knock-on effect on pub footfall this summer. Nearly a quarter (23%) pointed to difficulties getting home as a key obstacle, while 14% flagged that unusual kick-off times could conflict with parenting responsibilities.‌A further 12% believe supporters may stay away owing to concerns about midweek disruption. In fact, 21% have noticed fewer pubs in their local area planning to screen the football this summer, according to the survey conducted by OnePoll.Despite this, 41% said that if their side advances deep into the tournament, they would be more likely to head out and watch matches at the pub.Julie Fisher, UK CEO of Simply Business, said: "Independent pubs play a unique role in society, contributing enormously to the strength of both our local communities and economy.Article continues below"With publicans usually seeing a boost in footfall during international football tournaments, this summer's late kick offs will prove another challenge for owners operating in a difficult environment."Character, community, charm – like all small businesses, independent pubs offer a unique experience that should be cherished."That's why we're reminding the British public that, this summer, the 'best seat in the house' really is at your local."