The FIFA World Cup is one of the most celebrated sporting events in the world. Bringing communities together through shared excitement, patriotism, and passion. However, behind closed doors, there is a troubling reality that emerges alongside the celebrations. In the UK, multiple studies and official reports have found a consistent and concerning increase in domestic abuse incidents during major football tournaments involving England.

This blog explores the evidence behind this phenomenon, why it occurs, and most importantly how victims can protect themselves and access support.

A growing body of research highlights a clear correlation between England football matches and spikes in domestic abuse. Data from the Crown Prosecution Service confirms that incidents rise by 26% when England play and up to 38% when they lose and there is an 11% increase in domestic abuse the day after a match, regardless of the result. More recent research using police data found alcohol-related domestic abuse rose by 47% on the day of an England victory, with incidents still 18% higher the following day.

These figures are not isolated. Across multiple tournaments including World Cups and European Championships the same pattern emerges, domestic abuse increases notably around England matches.

It is important to emphasise that football does not cause domestic abuse. Abuse is always the responsibility of the perpetrator. So why does domestic abuse increase during such the World Cup and major sporting events? There are numerous reasons for this including heightened emotional intensity, alcohol consumption, extended social pressure and expectations and cultural and social factors. Despite all those reasons, it should not be happening, and we want to make sure that victims of domestic abuse know where to reach out and how to protect themselves.

If someone is at imminent risk they should call 999. If you are no longer at risk but a crime has been committed against you then you can report on 101.

If the police are not involved there are a number of domestic abuse charities who can give you practical guidance. In Huddersfield there is KDASS, Connect Housing and PDAP amongst others.

If you or someone you know may be at risk, there are also some practical steps that can improve safety:

1. Prepare an Emergency Plan

• Identify safe areas in your home with exits and access to a phone.
• Avoid rooms with potential weapons (e.g., kitchen, garage).

2. Keep Important Items Ready

• Pack a hidden emergency bag with essentials (ID, money, medication, clothes).
• Keep a charged mobile phone with you at all times.

3. Plan an Escape Route

• Rehearse how you would leave quickly in an emergency.
• Identify safe places to go (trusted friends, neighbours, public spaces).

4. Build a Support Network

• Tell someone you trust about your situation.
• Create a code word so they know when you need help.

5. Teach Children What to Do

• Ensure children know how to call 999 in an emergency.

6. Document Incidents (If Safe)

• Keep a record of abusive behaviour and save messages or photos.

How can Eaton Smith help you?

We have an experienced family department who have a team who specialise in Domestic Abuse cases.

There are two kinds of orders that can be applied for in urgent situations through the family court a Non Molestation order and a Occupation Order. A Non Molestation order is a form of civil court injunction which if granted stops the abuser from amongst other things being violent, threatening or contacting you. If the order is made it is a criminal offence to breach the order.  An Occupation order is to determine who should live in the house, who should not, how the property should be occupied etc.

We can also advise you on whether there are orders that you can take out to ensure the safety of any children and deal with other matters once you are safe such as divorce or the financial aspects of the relationship. 

We have specialist drop in session these drop in sessions are free, you do not need an appointment. At these sessions they are often attended by KDASS, connect housing, West Yorkshire police and other charities in the area so we can signpost you to other agencies who can assist. We hold the drop in at our offices on Every Thursday between 9am and 3pm If you cannot get into Huddersfield Centre we also attend every Monday between 9am and 3pm at Chickenley Children’s Centre.

We appreciate that domestic violence can happen at any time and therefore we also offer a free initial consultation any day of the week. As part of that initial advice we can assess you for Legal Aid which in many cases means the representation is free or you may need to pay a small contribution. If you don’t qualify we can look at Fixed Fee options as well.

If you feel like you would benefit from some advice, please call us on 01484 821 300. You can access advice not only in English but have solicitors who speak Polish, Urdu and Punjabi. We can assist with other languages via use of a translator.