Soccer fans in Berlin can look forward to public screenings even for late-night World Cup matches.
© dpa
Soccer fans in Berlin can look forward to watching Germany’s World Cup group stage matches at public screenings around the capital.
The Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Action and the Environment announced that a special exemption has been granted for matches kicking off at 10 p.m. or earlier. According to the announcement, restaurants with outdoor dining areas may broadcast these matches into the night.
"The new regulation stipulates that the use of outdoor areas may be extended until the end of any matches that began within the permitted hours," a statement said. In Berlin, quiet hours are in effect between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. World Cup matches that kick off at midnight or later, for example, may therefore not be broadcast publicly. This includes, for instance, group stage matches involving Turkey or Brazil.
According to the Senate Administration, the regulation applies to the DFB Cup Finals for women on May 14 and for men on May 23, 2026, in Berlin, as well as for the World Cup from June 11 to July 19, 2026, in Mexico, Canada and the U.S. Following approval by the Council of Mayors, the resolution will now be formally signed by Senator Ute Bonde and subsequently published. The Berlin Hotel and Restaurant Association described the decision as an important boost for the restaurant industry. "Demand increases, especially during major sporting events. Extended opening hours provide the necessary flexibility for businesses and contribute to a lively atmosphere in the city - for Berliners as well as for international guests," said CEO Gerrit Buchhorn.