Prosecutors in England and Wales are expecting a surge in domestic abuse incidents during the men's World Cup, prompting a call for victims to come forward and a warning that perpetrators will face justice. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has emphasized that domestic abuse is a crime with serious consequences, regardless of match outcomes.
CPS Warning and Data on Domestic Abuse Cases
Olivia Rose, the CPS national stalking lead, stated: “We often see more domestic abuse cases around major football tournaments like these. The point that we want to get across is that those responsible will be held accountable, and that we won’t hesitate to bring them to justice.” She added that alcohol and heightened emotions, not football itself, can exacerbate abuse.
Rose highlighted that four in five domestic abuse cases referred by police are charged, underscoring the seriousness with which the CPS treats such offenses. She urged victims to report abuse, assuring them they will be taken seriously and supported.
Campaigns and Research on Domestic Abuse During Tournaments
Women’s Aid has launched an awareness campaign, “The Other Kick Off,” which draws attention to the time when an abuser is likely to return home from a match and cause harm. Veronica Oakeshott, head of external affairs at Women’s Aid, said: “Domestic abuse is still thought of as a ‘hidden’ crime, as it mostly occurs within the home. The World Cup is not only an opportunity to raise awareness of this crime, but also a chance to remind women that services are there to help them, should they need them.”
Research from Lancaster University reveals that domestic abuse incidents increase by 26% when England wins or draws, and by 38% when they lose. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) reported over 300 domestic abuse offenses during Euro 2024 where victims linked the perpetrator’s behavior to football.
Police and Charity Responses
Louisa Rolfe, assistant commissioner and national policing lead for domestic abuse, said: “Our priority throughout the tournament is to support and protect anyone who may be at risk of domestic abuse. Police and prosecutors are working closely together to use all available powers to identify and arrest offenders, secure evidence and bring those responsible to justice.”
Refuge, the domestic abuse charity, criticized comments by Reform MP Sarah Pochin, who posted: “For the sake of women’s safety we need England to keep winning.” Refuge described the post as “highly inappropriate” and stated it could allow perpetrators to evade accountability. Ellie Butt, head of policy and public affairs at Refuge, said: “During major football tournaments such as this year’s men’s football World Cup, you will likely see headlines about rises in reports of domestic abuse. But no matter whether a team wins, draws or loses, football doesn’t cause abuse – abusers do.”
Butt welcomed efforts to prosecute perpetrators during the World Cup but stressed that “this ethos must extend beyond the football season,” noting that abuse occurs year-round, often hidden and unreported.
For support in the UK, call the national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247, or visit Women’s Aid. In the US, the domestic violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). In Australia, the national family violence counselling service is on 1800 737 732. Other international helplines can be found via www.befrienders.org.
