The 2026 FIFA World Cup is well underway, bringing supporters together across the country. For millions of people, major tournaments create excitement, anticipation and a shared hope that football might finally be “coming home”.
However, for people experiencing domestic abuse, these tournaments can bring increased anxiety and fear.
Research highlighted by Women’s Aid found that domestic abuse incidents increased by 38% when England lost a match at a major tournament. Incidents also rose by 26% when England won or drew.
It is important to be clear that football does not cause domestic abuse. Neither does alcohol. Domestic abuse is rooted in power and control, and responsibility always lies with the person choosing to behave abusively. However, heightened emotions, increased drinking and tensions surrounding important matches can escalate abuse that is already taking place.
Women’s Aid has worked for several years to draw attention to this issue. Its 2022 “He’s Coming Home” campaign highlighted the fear experienced by many women and children during major tournaments. Four years later, its “Countdown to Kick-off” campaign is again reminding supporters that, whatever happens on the pitch, nobody should be frightened of the final whistle.
Football has enormous reach. Clubs, players, broadcasters and governing bodies therefore have a valuable opportunity to challenge harmful attitudes, raise awareness and help people recognise where support is available.
Earlier this year, sports figures including England internationals Chloe Kelly and Dan Burn supported the government’s Enough campaign through awareness videos produced with Sky Media. By speaking openly about violence against women and girls, high-profile athletes can help start conversations and reach audiences that traditional campaigns may struggle to engage.
There are encouraging signs at club level too. Clubs across the football pyramid, including Premier League sides, are engaging with projects to tackle violence against women and girls and are even signing up to achieve White Ribbon employer accreditation. This requires organisations to demonstrate meaningful commitments in areas including leadership, staff training, community engagement and awareness.
It is an important step, but professional football can and should do much more. With millions attending matches every season, clubs are well placed to promote respectful relationships, educate supporters and clearly signpost specialist services.
At Leeway, we have been pleased to work alongside Norwich City and Ipswich Town to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the support available across our communities.
Most recently, representatives from our NIDAS team attended Norwich City’s fixture against Oxford United, which coincided with White Ribbon Day. Our team had a stand outside the club’s wellbeing hub, helping to increase the visibility of our services and break down barriers that may prevent people from seeking support.
We hope to continue building these partnerships when the new club season begins in August. Football has the power to bring communities together. By using that influence responsibly, the game can also play an important part in challenging abuse and helping more people feel able to reach out.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are worried about someone you know, contact Leeway’s confidential helpline on 0300 561 0077. If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.
