As England prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, many people are looking forward to coming together to support their team.
However, for some women and children, major football tournaments can be a time of increased fear and risk.
We are supporting Women’s Aid’s Countdown to Kick Off campaign, which raises awareness of the link between major football tournaments and increases in domestic abuse incidents.
The Hidden Impact of Major Football Tournaments
Research has shown that reported incidents of domestic abuse increase during major football tournaments. Studies found that incidents increased by:
- 38% when England lost a match
- 26% when England won or drew
- 11% increase the following day regardless of the result
It is important to be clear that football does not cause domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is a choice made by the perpetrator and is never the fault of sport, alcohol, or any other external factor. However, existing abuse can intensify during major sporting events due to heightened emotions, increased alcohol consumption, and other pressures.
As Women’s Aid highlights through this campaign, many survivors do not look forward to the opening whistle – they dread the final one. Add your name and stand with survivors of domestic abuse here. Find out more here.
Four years on from ‘He’s Coming home’ Campaign
Countdown to Kick Off comes four years after Women’s Aid presented He’s Coming Home – a harrowing campaign that exposed the devastating reality that, win or lose, women are at greater risk of harm during the World Cup.
Our White Ribbon Commitment
This World Cup, football will bring people together in pubs, bars, workplaces, community spaces and homes across the UK.
White Ribbon UK’s #ItTakesATeam campaign is encouraging everyone to help create safer, more respectful match days, on and off the pitch.
Watch the webinar
Watching the Game, Playing Your Part explores practical ways to speak up safely, support others and help people enjoy the game.
We encourage everyone to learn more about White Ribbon and to make the White Ribbon Promise “I promise to… never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women” here.
Understanding Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, disability, religion, or socioeconomic background.
It can include:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Coercive or controlling behaviour
- Financial abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Stalking and harassment
- Online or digital abuse
Domestic abuse is often a pattern of behaviour that can escalate over time.
Supporting Survivors
No woman, child, or person experiencing domestic abuse should have to live in fear.
If you are concerned about your own safety or the safety of someone you know, support is available.
National Support
Women’s Aid Live Chat and Support Services
- Visit the Women’s Aid website for information, advice and support.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
- Freephone: 0808 2000 247
- Available 24 hours a day
In an emergency
- Always call 999.
- If speaking is unsafe, call 999 and press 55 when prompted to indicate that you need police assistance.
How You Can Help
Domestic abuse thrives in silence. By raising awareness, recognising the signs, and supporting survivors, we can all play a part in creating safer communities.
As the nation gets ready for kick-off, let’s stand with survivors of domestic abuse with the same passion and commitment that we bring to supporting our teams.