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Jun 18, 20261
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Uzbekistan Delays Workday for Historic FIFA World Cup Debut

Uzbekistan has delayed the start of the government workday by two hours on June 18 to allow citizens to watch the national football team's historic first-ever FIFA World Cup match against Colombia. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has endorsed the decision and plans to watch the game with his family.
Quick Facts
Who
Uzbekistan national football team
What
Government offices delay work start time
When
June 18, 2026
Where
Uzbekistan
- Government offices delay work start time
- National team makes historic World Cup debut
- Match scheduled against Colombia
- President plans to watch match with family
- Uzbekistan national football team
Uzbekistan has announced a two-hour delay to the start of the official workday to allow citizens to witness the national football team's historic debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Government offices across the country will begin work at 10:00 a.m. (GMT+5) on June 18, instead of the usual 8:00 a.m., according to an announcement by presidential spokesperson Sherzod Asadov. This marks a significant national moment, as the Uzbek team competes in the World Cup for the first time in the country's history.
The schedule adjustment reflects the importance of the occasion for the nation. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has expressed his support for the decision and plans to watch the match at home with his family and grandchildren. Asadov confirmed the president's backing, stating that the delayed start will enable more citizens to follow the team's World Cup debut.
Uzbek football's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a major sporting achievement for the Central Asian nation. The team's opening match is scheduled against Colombia, positioning it as a landmark moment in Uzbek football history. By adjusting government operations, the country has signalled the national significance of this first World Cup appearance.
Why This Matters
This policy reflects the profound significance of a nation's first World Cup appearance. By officially reorganizing government schedules, Uzbekistan demonstrates how major sporting achievements unite populations and warrant institutional recognition. For citizens, this moment represents decades of national football development culminating in global competition, while the government's formal endorsement validates public celebration of collective pride.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireUzbekistan government offices begin work at 10:00 a.m. (GMT+5) instead of usual 8:00 a.m.
Jun 18, 2026
WireUzbekistan national team plays opening match against Colombia at FIFA World Cup
Jun 18, 2026
WirePresident Shavkat Mirziyoyev watches match at home with family and grandchildren