Federal Council grants permission to stay up late

Martin Pfister champions the cause of young football fans with regard to Switzerland’s Round-of 16 football match on Tuesday evening. "A good nap can make up for a lot," says the politician from Zug.
 

"Dear parents, today I’m addressing you directly as Federal President": with these words, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen addressed the nation in a social media video last week. Amidst a group of serious-looking children, he asked the parents to make an exception for the Austrian World Cup match, and to allow their children to watch TV a little later for once.

Swiss children can also count on high-ranking political support in negotiating an exception to the curfew, so they can cheer on the national team starting at 10 pm on Tuesday night. "A good midday nap can help you get a lot done," said Sports Minister Martin Pfister with a twinkle in his eye at a press conference on Monday. He expressed his conviction: "A Swiss victory would have a motivating effect for the next day."

Sports Minister Martin Pfister (from Zug)      Photo provided
 

Martin Pfister himself will only be watching the round of 16 match on TV. His department explained that a trip was unfortunately not possible due to time constraints. Cancelling a previously arranged meeting with the Austrian Defence Minister because of the World Cup would have been a diplomatic affront.

Federal President (Bundespräsident) Guy Parmelin will also be absent from the stadium this time, due to a state visit to Mexico. But Martin Pfister's department stated that they will consider a trip if Switzerland makes it to the quarter-finals.
 

In the light of recent problematic events at the 2026 World Cup, perhaps politicians of all colours should stay well away from involving themselves in this event?
 

Information:
Switzerland will play Colombia in the Round-of-16 match in Vancouver from 22:00 on Tuesday, 7^th July.
If the Swiss win, they will play either Argentina or Egypt in a quarter-final match in Kansas City from 2:00 am on the morning on Sunday, 12^th July.