World Cup, Domestic Abuse and the Statistics We Cannot Ignore

For many people, the World Cup is a time of excitement, family gatherings and national pride. Homes, pubs and communities come together to support their teams, creating memories that last a lifetime.

But for far too many women and children, major sporting tournaments bring something very different: fear.

Recent figures released by the UK Football Policing Unit revealed that domestic abuse incidents reached their highest recorded level during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A total of 384 domestic abuse incidents were reported during the tournament, accounting for 17% of all football-related incidents, with 93% occurring around England matches.

These figures are deeply saddening.

Football Doesn’t Cause Domestic Abuse

It’s important to be clear: football does not cause domestic abuse.

Neither does alcohol.

Domestic abuse is a pattern of controlling, coercive and abusive behaviour. The decision to abuse another person always lies with the perpetrator.

However, major sporting events can intensify existing abusive behaviour. Increased alcohol consumption, heightened emotions and longer periods spent together can all increase the risk for people who are already living in abusive relationships. Campaigners and prosecutors have repeatedly warned that domestic abuse often rises around major football tournaments, regardless of whether England wins or loses.

Behind Every Statistic Is a Family

Statistics can never tell the whole story.

Behind every reported incident is someone whose home no longer feels safe.

It may be a woman who spends the match walking on eggshells, worrying what mood her partner will be in after the final whistle.

It may be children listening to shouting from upstairs, witnessing frightening behaviour or trying to comfort a parent afterwards.

Domestic abuse doesn’t just affect one person. It impacts entire families, leaving emotional scars that can last long after the tournament has ended.

We All Have a Role to Play

As communities come together to celebrate sport, we must also remember those who may be dreading the occasion.

Friends, neighbours, family members and colleagues can all make a difference by recognising the signs that someone may need support.

A simple conversation.
A safe place to talk.
Believing someone when they disclose abuse.

These actions can be life-changing.

Support Is Available

At Broxtowe Women’s Project, we support women and children affected by domestic abuse every day of the year—not just during high-profile events.

If you are experiencing abuse, or you’re worried about someone you know, please remember that help is available. You do not have to face it alone.

While we hope future tournaments are remembered for the football, our greatest hope is that no one has to fear what happens when the final whistle blows.

Domestic abuse is never acceptable.

There is never an excuse for abuse.