Greggs is temporarily pulling its entire Mexican chicken sandwich range ahead of England’s high-stakes clash against Mexico on Sunday night.
The game will go ahead as planned at 1am BST after a dramatic back-and-forth that saw FIFA considering pushing the time forward by six hours amid weather concerns, before eventually U-turning.
The Mexican chicken baguette, Mexican chicken oval bite, and Mexican chicken flatbread will all be benched from selected shops in England this Sunday, with “Off Sale” signs going up ahead of the kickoff.
Pubs across the UK will remain open till 5am for the match as prime minister Keir Starmer extended licensing hours in honour of the England team’s progress through the tournament.
Meanwhile, Greggs shops in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will continue to stock the items, which the company says is a decision made to “recognise that England’s neighbours may have alternative football loyalties this weekend”.
However, the Mexican chicken lineup will return to Greggs’ starting on Monday morning.
“It's the first time in our history we've dropped a sandwich range, but duty calls,” said Zoe Harris, customer director at Greggs.
"Nothing personal - it's a tactical rotation and the gaffer's call is final. To any Mexico fans reading this, no hard feelings - we’ve loved having you in the starting lineup, and you'll be straight back off the bench come Monday morning. May the best team win!”
England are in the last 16 after winning against DR Congo despite falling behind early in Atlanta.
The Mexico clash will provide a unique challenge with altitude and an anticipated hostile reception providing added factors for the England squad as they prepare for the Estadio Azteca.
“Football might be coming home but we're making sure fans don't have to,” Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday.
“Pubs staying open til the final whistle is good news for supporters and good news for the pubs and venues that bring our communities together. The whole country will be backing the team. Come on, England!”
