Swiss Cities Lift Curfews for World Cup Quarter-Final
Football fever is sweeping across Switzerland as pubs and restaurants in many cities and cantons will stay open all night on Saturday. This special waiver allows fans to watch their national team play Argentina in the World Cup quarter-final. The highly anticipated match kicks off at 3:00 AM local time on Sunday morning.
Geneva’s authorities confirmed that all public establishments, including cafes, restaurants, and bars, can operate “without time restrictions during the night of 11 to 12 July to show the match.” This decision highlights the excitement surrounding Switzerland’s journey in the tournament.
The Swiss team, known as the Nati, has reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954. They will face Lionel Messi’s Argentina, the reigning world champions, in Kansas City. This game offers the Nati a chance to get revenge for their heartbreaking loss to Argentina in the 2014 World Cup, where they were defeated in extra time during the round of 16.
Other cantons are also joining in the celebration. Jura and Bern have granted similar exceptional permits for their public establishments. In cities like Lausanne, Sion, and Sierre, the usual curfews have been lifted.
Zurich has even announced a “Freinacht,” or “sleepless night,” specifically for indoor restaurants and bars. Basel-Landschaft canton has also allowed restaurants and bars, including temporary World Cup venues, to stay open until 6:00 AM on Sunday. This widespread support shows the nation’s hope for their team’s success on the world stage.
