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With the Fifa World Cup 2026 well underway, this can present as a increased risk for children living in households where abuse is present.
Evidence tells us that domestic abuse incidents often rise during major sporting tournaments, with research showing increases linked to match outcomes and heightened emotions.
Research consistently shows that domestic abuse reports spike during major football tournaments like the World Cup. Studies indicate that incidents increase by 26% when England wins or draws and by 38% when England loses, with alcohol-related abuse rising by 47% following a victory. Overall, domestic abuse reports can remain elevated for several hours after matches, regardless of the result.
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While football itself does not cause abuse, several factors can exacerbate existing abusive behaviours during the World Cup:
- Emotional volatility linked to match outcomes
- Alcohol consumption and social gatherings
- Financial stress or gambling losses
- Pre-existing patterns of coercive control or aggression
These conditions can intensify abusive behaviours, making major sporting events particularly risky for victims.
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The NSPCC warns that children in violent and abusive homes face a greater risk due to the increase in stress levels, alcohol consumption, and gambling during the World Cup. The charity revealed that calls by vulnerable children to its helpline increased during previous tournaments. These children face heightened risks, living in environments filled with fear and unpredictability.
Children are victims of domestic abuse in their own right, whether they are directly or indirectly impacted by domestic abuse incidents.
Domestic abuse can have an immediate and long-term impact on children's physical and mental health, as well as, their understanding of healthy relationships.
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Throughout the tournament there is an increased risk of domestic abuse, this risk may escalate during the England games, with potential escalation prior to, during and following the matches:
- Wednesday 17 June (England v Croatia)
- Tuesday 23 June (England v Ghana)
- Saturday 27 June (Panama v England)
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Any organisation or individual working with children and families, should consider the following:
Professional Curiosity and Response
- Maintain increased awareness of domestic abuse indicators in the lead-up to and following fixtures
- Be alert to increasing risk across multiple matches
- Respond promptly to emerging concerns
Voice of the Child
- Be aware of changes in children's behaviours, particularly after a match
- Ensure that children’s lived experiences are actively considered and responded to
- Recognise that exposure to abuse constitutes harm
Multi-Agency Information Sharing
- Share relevant information promptly when risks to children are identified
- Support coordinated responses across services
While major sporting events are positive for many, they are a known contextual risk factor for domestic abuse.
For children in affected households, these periods can significantly increase exposure to harm. Multi-agency professionals play a critical role in identifying risk, responding effectively, and ensuring children’s safety remains central.
Support Resources
Victims or those concerned about someone at risk of domestic abuse can access support from:
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