In a recent announcement, the Norwegian government, led by the Health and Care Services Department, has put forth a proposal to amend alcohol laws, allowing for the serving of beer and wine in pubs from 03:00 to 06:00 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This change aims to ensure that fans can enjoy matches that are scheduled late at night or early in the morning due to time zone differences. The proposal has faced criticism, being labeled as populism and an oversimplification of the complexities surrounding alcohol regulation in Norway.

The parliamentary leader of the Labour Party, Tonje Brenna, has expressed her support for the initiative, arguing that it is essential for fans to watch the World Cup in a pub setting, especially when the games are scheduled at inconvenient times. Brenna assured that if existing regulations hinder this experience, they should be reformed to accommodate the cultural significance of sporting events, illuminating the interplay between politics, public health, and social life in Norway.

Critics argue that this proposal trivializes the serious issues surrounding alcohol consumption and public health. By labeling it as 'populist nonsense,' they warn against decisions driven by political expedience rather than thoughtful consideration. The debate highlights the challenges faced by the government in balancing the promotion of social experiences with the responsibilities of managing public health and safety, particularly in the context of a major international sporting event like the World Cup.