Kerala declares Monday holiday as FIFA World Cup final runs past midnight

The Kerala government has declared a holiday for all educational institutions across the state on Monday as the FIFA World Cup 2026 final is set to conclude in the early hours of the morning. The decision is aimed at easing attendance concerns for students and educational institutions following the overnight fixture.

According to official announcements reported by multiple media outlets, Chief Minister VD Satheesan directed all educational institutions, including professional colleges, to remain closed on Monday. An official government order is expected to be issued shortly.

Schools and colleges to remain closed

The holiday will apply to educational institutions across the state.

However, the government has clarified that examinations scheduled in advance will not be affected. Key points include:

• All schools, colleges and professional institutions will remain closed on Monday.
• Pre-scheduled examinations will be conducted as planned.
• The official government notification is expected to be issued shortly.

The move allows students and educational institutions to adjust to the late-night timing of one of football's biggest global events without disrupting the examination calendar.

Decision follows calls from multiple quarters

The announcement follows demands from opposition leaders and others who urged the state government to consider a holiday for students.

Former Education Minister V Sivankutty had earlier said it would be difficult for children to attend classes the following morning because the final would conclude after midnight.

The government subsequently decided to declare a holiday while ensuring previously scheduled examinations remain unchanged.

Global football event draws statewide response

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will feature defending champions Argentina against Spain, with the match scheduled during the early hours of Monday in India because of time zone differences.

Football enjoys a strong following in Kerala, where international tournaments often attract widespread public interest and late-night viewership.

The state government's decision reflects the anticipated impact of the final on students and educational institutions across Kerala.

As fans prepare for one of the biggest matches in world football, schools and colleges will remain closed for the day, while academic assessments already scheduled will continue according to the existing timetable.