At the Ann Craft Trust, we recognise the extraordinary power of sport to bring people together.
For many, the 2026 World Cup will do just that. But we must also acknowledge that for some, major tournaments like this can bring fear rather than excitement.
The sad fact is that, due to heightened emotions, social pressures, and alcohol consumption, major sporting events can make some instances of abusive behaviour worse. And unfortunately, research shows that there is a consistent rise in domestic abuse incidents when the England men’s team plays.
What Does The Evidence Tell Us?
- Research from Lancaster University shows domestic abuse cases increase by 26% when England play, and rise to 38% when England lose.
- A BBC analysis following the last European Championship recorded 351 football‑related domestic abuse incidents across England and Wales.
- A study by Warwick Business School found domestic abuse increased by 47% on the day England won a World Cup or European Championship match.
- NSPCC analysis found that during the 2018 World Cup, contacts about domestic abuse increased by 33% compared to the monthly average.
Note that these figures only represent the reported cases. There may be many more victims of domestic abuse who simply did not feel safe to come forward.
And this year, the risks may be even greater, due to the time difference. Matches in US, Canada, and Mexico will air late at night in the UK. This will lead to disrupted routines, disturbed sleeping patterns and, of course, a lot of late night drinking. This could increase the pressure in some households, while reducing the opportunity for people to seek help and support when they need it.
Why This Matters For Safeguarding Adults in Sport
Safeguarding adults in sport does not stop at the pitch, the club, or the training environment. It extends to peoples’ home lives and their relationships, whether they are players, coaches, volunteers, or supporters.
The evidence shows that major tournaments like the World Cup can heighten the risk of abuse. Good safeguarding means that we must be alert to these risks, and do all we can to give people the support they need.
Sport has amazing potential to bring people together. But it can only unite us if everyone can experience it safely.
How Can We Respond To This Risk?
Across the UK, organisations and communities are responding:
- Campaigns such as Support Is a Team Sport are raising awareness and encouraging people to check in on friends, family, and neighbours.
- Local authorities and charities are running community events, awareness sessions, and safe‑spaces initiatives throughout the tournament.
- Prosecutors and police forces are preparing for increased demand to ensure victim‑survivors are protected and perpetrators held accountable.
Spotting The Signs of Domestic Abuse
- A partner putting another down in front of others, with belittling comments or humiliation.
- Controlling or jealous behaviour by a partner. For example, one partner may force the other to watch a match with them, instead of allowing them to stay at home or go out with their own friends.
- Visible injuries, particularly those that worsen or appear just before or after match days.
- Someone seems withdrawn, or they appear cut off from their family or friends, particularly around matches.
- Noticeable changes in mood. This might include heightened anxiety, depression, or agitation.
- Someone seems fearful or reluctant to go home on match days.
- Unusual spending or missing money, particularly if linked to gambling or match day drinking.
- Raised voices, arguments or distress heard before, during, or after matches
What To Do If You Or Someone You Know Needs Support
Specialist domestic abuse services remain available throughout the tournament and beyond.
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge): 0808 2000 247 – call for 24/7 support
- Women’s Aid: Online resources and webchat
- Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327
- Galop (LGBTQ+): 0800 999 5428
- Respect: Support for those worried about their own behaviour
- Childline: 0800 1111 – for children and young people
Sport Can Bring Us Together
The World Cup can be a moment of unity. We can all help to make the tournament safer for everyone by raising awareness, challenging harmful behaviour, and supporting anyone who might be at risk.
And as the competition begins, we wish both the England and Scotland teams the very best as they take to the world stage!