The liquor regulator in Ontario says bars and restaurants across the province will be allowed to serve alcohol at 7 a.m. for the duration of the FIFA World Cup to line up with some of the early-morning matches.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario made the announcement Friday, just two days before the prestigious soccer tournament begins in host country Qatar.
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It says the temporary extension of liquor service to 7 a.m., two hours earlier than the current standard, is only for the duration of the tournament concluding on Dec. 18.
The eight-hour time difference with Qatar means some matches start as early as 5:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. in Ontario.
Municipalities are able to request for the start of liquor service to remain at 9 a.m. in their jurisdiction.
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