Uzbekistan's President Orders Late Work Start on World Cup Match Day

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan has issued a directive allowing state employees to begin work at 10:00 AM on June 18, the day Uzbekistan plays its opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The measure accommodates the early kickoff time of the match between Uzbekistan and Colombia in Mexico City, which is scheduled for 7:00 AM Tashkent time. Presidential spokesman Sherzod Asadov announced the decision on June 17, noting that private enterprises remain free to set their own working hours based on their operational needs.

Asadov emphasized the significance of the match for the nation, stating that President Mirziyoyev and Uzbekistan's 40 million citizens eagerly anticipate the game. He noted that visiting foreign dignitaries attending the Tashkent International Investment Forum, currently underway in the capital, have expressed their support for the Uzbek national team.

When asked where the president would watch the match, Asadov replied that Mirziyoyev plans to observe the game with his family and grandchildren at home. The match will be played at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium, with international media covering the event from the venue.