As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, excitement is already building across England and around the globe. Families, friends, and communities will come together to celebrate the world’s biggest sporting event, united by hope, passion, and national pride. Yet behind the excitement of the beautiful game lies a darker reality that too often goes unnoticed: the increase in domestic abuse linked to major football tournaments.

Research consistently shows a correlation between major football events involving England and spikes in domestic abuse incidents. Studies by Lancaster University previously found reports of domestic abuse increased by 38% when England lost and by 26% when England won or drew. Incidents also rose the following day, regardless of the result. These statistics are deeply concerning and serve as a reminder that for many adults and children, major tournaments can be a time of fear rather than celebration.

At Future Living, we know domestic abuse is not caused by football itself. Abuse is about power and control, and perpetrators alone are responsible for their actions. However, the heightened emotions surrounding tournaments, increased alcohol consumption, and intense social pressures can escalate abusive behaviour. For survivors already living in unsafe environments, the World Cup can intensify feelings of anxiety, isolation, and danger.

Domestic abuse affects people from every background, age, and community. It is not limited to physical violence. Abuse can include coercive control, emotional manipulation, financial control, sexual abuse, intimidation, digital monitoring, and isolation from friends and family. Children living in abusive households are victims in their own right and can suffer long-lasting emotional and psychological harm.

At Future Living, we provide therapeutic support for adults and children who are survivors of domestic abuse. We understand the profound impact trauma can have on mental health, relationships, confidence, and wellbeing. During periods such as the World Cup, we prepare for an increase in people reaching out for support, knowing that early intervention and trauma-informed care can make a significant difference in recovery and healing.

Our therapists and support teams work closely with survivors to create safe spaces where individuals can process their experiences, rebuild self-esteem, and begin to move forward. For children, specialist therapeutic support can help them understand and recover from the trauma they have witnessed or experienced.

Signs Someone May Be Experiencing Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse is often hidden, but there are warning signs friends, family members, neighbours, and colleagues can look out for:

• Sudden withdrawal from social activities or loved ones
• Visible injuries or frequent unexplained accidents
• Anxiety, fearfulness, or appearing constantly “on edge”
• Limited access to money, transport, or communication
• A partner excessively checking phones, messages, or whereabouts
• Changes in a child’s behaviour, including anxiety, aggression, or withdrawal

Checking in with someone, offering a safe and non-judgemental conversation, and signposting them to professional support can make a life-changing difference.

Creating Safer Communities During World Cup 2026

As excitement builds for World Cup 2026, we all have a role to play in creating safer communities. Supporting survivors, challenging harmful attitudes, and refusing to normalise abusive behaviour are responsibilities shared by everyone.

At Future Living, we encourage people to:

• Check in on friends, neighbours, and loved ones during tournament periods
• Challenge misogyny and abusive language when they see or hear it
• Support services working with survivors and children affected by abuse
• Learn more about healthy relationships and trauma-informed support

For those experiencing abuse, please know you are not alone, and support is available. You will be listened to, believed, and supported.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999.

For confidential support, contact:
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
Future Living: www.futurelivinghertford.co.uk

If you do want to speak to someone in person about your experiences, Future Living run a Drop-in every Friday 10am-12 at Vale House in Hertford. You can speak to one of our caseworkers confidentially for support and advice.

As the world comes together for World Cup 2026, let’s ensure the conversation includes protecting and supporting those affected by domestic abuse. Together, we can help ensure the beautiful game does not come at the cost of someone’s safety.