German and Austrian venues face hurdles showing early World Cup matches

In Lünen, Germany, a public viewing at Café Seepark drew large numbers of football fans on 25 June, creating a lively atmosphere for the World Cup opening match.

In Klagenfurt, Austria, bar owners and venue managers are confronting staffing shortages and complex permit requirements to broadcast a 4 a.m. group‑stage game. The city ordinance allows indoor screenings until 2 a.m. and garden viewings until midnight, so establishments must apply for special exceptions. Bar manager Berit Jonke said, "Es ist schwierig, wenn es zuerst so und dann so ist. Jetzt fehlt mir noch den Bescheid," while another proprietor remarked, "Wahrscheinlich muss man das Spiel einfach zeigen und hoffen, dass keiner etwas sagt." The authorities warn that unauthorised broadcasts could lead to administrative penalties.