Lan Kwai Fong Expected to Thrive During FIFA World Cup Despite Unconventional Match Times

Lan Kwai Fong Group chairman Allan Zeman expects the city’s nightlife hub to be packed throughout the coming Fifa World Cup, despite many matches being scheduled during morning and working hours in Hong Kong. “One thing about fans: if you are a real fan, the time doesn’t matter,” Zeman said. The tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19, will be shown across the nightlife area in Central as part of a six-week “Fifa World Cup Summer Frenzy Carnival”, organised in partnership with the official broadcaster, Now TV. More than 20 restaurants and bars in Lan Kwai Fong will take part, while all 104 matches will be screened on several large outdoor screens alongside theme decorations, photo spots and fan zones. Zeman said previous experience suggested the turnout would remain strong regardless of kick-off times. “We already see people coming out for matches at 3am, 4am or 5am – it doesn’t matter,” he said. “The World Cup comes only once every four years, and fans go crazy for it. “The whole area becomes like a stadium. With the big screen in the plaza, we expect it to be even bigger this time.”