Brazil's public sector and firms adjust schedules for 2026 World Cup

The state government of Mato Grosso declared a facultative holiday on Monday, 29 June, for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup matches. All administrative units of the state executive will be closed, while essential services such as public security, health emergencies and the state blood bank will operate on duty‑shift. Specific closures include the Ganha Tempo units, the administrative headquarters of the Health Secretariat, the State Center of Citizenship, and the Security Public Secretariat, with many services resuming on Tuesday, 30 June.

A Catho survey of 420 Brazilian companies found that only 5 % plan to keep normal working hours during the matches. Seventy‑six percent expect at least a modest impact on routine, and 60 % say games coincide with regular work shifts, especially for night‑time operations such as supermarkets and services. Common measures include broadcasting matches at the workplace (26 %) and releasing staff early (24 %). Executives note that flexible scheduling can boost employee engagement and productivity during high‑interest national events.