German Government To Allow Public Viewing Of World Cup Matches Past Midnight

The German government "is expected to decid on a special regulation of the Environmental Ministry for public viewing events during the World Cup past midnight," according to the HANDELSBLATT. The regulation "would allow the broadcast of games on big screens" after 10pm, and in special cases, after 12am. German Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks said, "Watching matches outdoors is simply part of a World Cup." The fan fests "are expected to be declared sporting veunues during the World Cup and therefore equal public viewing on big screens at stadiums." Due to the time difference, 10 group stage games "will kick off at midnight, and one at 3am." The reason for the new regulation "is the federal emission protection law, which prohibits noise of more than 40dB in residential areas after 10pm" (HANDELSBLATT, 4/1).