Football's international governing body, FIFA, has confirmed that England's World Cup last-16 knockout match against Mexico will proceed as originally scheduled at 01:00 BST on Monday. This decision follows a swift U-turn on a previous plan to bring the fixture forward by six hours.

Sources had indicated on Friday that the match, to be held at the Mexico City Stadium, was set to be rescheduled to 19:00 BST on Sunday. However, within hours, FIFA decided against the alteration, reverting to the initial kick-off time.

The potential rescheduling had caused significant disruption and concern for businesses, schools, and emergency services in the UK, who were preparing for the implications of an early Monday morning fixture. In the UK, pubs will now be permitted to stay open until 05:00 BST to accommodate the late-night match, a move supported by political figures.

Initial reports suggested the match might be moved due to concerns over forecasted storms around the stadium. Discussions also involved the Football Association, particularly following a tragic incident where four people died after Mexico's previous match. An earlier kick-off was considered to avoid potential severe weather, but it would have disrupted the travel plans of England fans already in Mexico City.

Fans travelling to Mexico City expressed relief at the confirmed schedule. Owen Pickering, who is travelling with his sons, stated that a move to an earlier time would have caused them to miss the game entirely. His travel arrangements, including flights and pre-arranged school absences for his children, were based on the original 01:00 BST kick-off. Pickering criticized FIFA's handling of the situation, citing a lack of consideration for travelling supporters.

The decision to maintain the 01:00 BST kick-off means that many pubs across the UK will extend their opening hours. This is a rare occurrence, and the extension has been welcomed by business owners and supporters alike. The move allows fans to gather and watch the match in a communal setting, a tradition often associated with major sporting events.

England fans attending the match in Mexico City, estimated to be over 3,000, will also benefit from the unchanged schedule. The Azteca stadium has a capacity of 87,000. The early morning start in the UK contrasts with the evening match time in Mexico City, which is 18:00 local time.

The situation highlights the complex logistical challenges involved in organizing international sporting events, particularly when weather and fan travel considerations intersect. FIFA's rapid reversal underscores the dynamic nature of such decisions and the need for clear communication with all stakeholders.