90 Norwegian municipalities say no to World Cup alcohol extension

Despite a proposal from Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre to extend alcohol serving hours during the World Cup, a significant number of Norwegian municipalities are opting against it. Last year, Støre suggested allowing bars to stay open later to accommodate World Cup matches, many of which are played in North American time zones, leading to late-night or early-morning games in Europe.

Norway's current law prohibits alcohol service after 3 a.m. The proposed change would have allowed municipalities to grant exceptions for the duration of the tournament.

However, a recent survey by Norwegian public broadcaster NRK reveals that 90 out of Norway's 357 municipalities have chosen not to implement this extended service. Of the total, 137 municipalities have said yes to the proposal, while 42 are still deliberating. The remaining municipalities have not yet responded to NRK's inquiry.

The decision by these municipalities means that many bars will continue to adhere to the standard 3 a.m. closing time for alcohol service, even during the World Cup.