Domestic abuse spikes after England World Cup losses, research shows

As the final whistle blew in Atlanta on Wednesday, signaling England's exit from the World Cup, disappointment swept the nation. But for many women and girls, a different emotion took hold: fear. Research from Lancaster University shows that domestic abuse rises by 26% when England plays and by 38% when they lose. During major tournaments like the World Cup, some women live in constant dread of their partners' return home.

Charities report heightened risk during tournaments

Rebecca Goshawk, who works at domestic abuse charity Solace, was watching the semi-final against Argentina. "We know that there'll be survivors and victims frightened of their partners coming home and worried about what that might mean for them and their safety," she said. "They're being shouted at. They're being belittled. They're being told they're useless. It can be as strong as physical violence against women, whether that's being hit or kicked." Goshawk emphasized that for most victims, this is not a one-off event tied to football. "It'll be a pattern that they're used to."

Police data from Euro 2024 shows scale of problem

Violence against women and girls after football matches is a recurring issue. The National Police Chiefs' Council released data showing that more than 300 domestic abuse offences were reported to police during Euro 2024, where victims believed the perpetrator's behaviour was linked to football. Statistics for the 2026 World Cup are not yet available, but Goshawk says rates of misogyny and domestic abuse generally are not changing. She predicts similar numbers for this tournament.

Goshawk stressed that Solace does not blame football itself but holds perpetrators—overwhelmingly men—accountable. Increased alcohol consumption can heighten feelings of loss or disappointment, leading to aggression. The charity's message to men is that such behaviour can change and help is available. "There are advice lines out there for men who are worried about their own abusive behaviours," she said. "What we'd say to other men who may not be perpetrating this violence: You have a duty and a responsibility to understand and challenge it within your friendships and your family as well. We all do."

Prosecutors warn of coercive control and urge community action

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) sees the impact of domestic abuse firsthand. Of every five cases police refer to the CPS, four result in charges. Olivia Rose, the CPS's National Stalking Lead, noted that abuse is not only physical. "What our prosecutors see can include monitoring of victims' phones and social media, often inundating them with dozens of messages. There's also emotional blackmail, such as threatening to kill themselves if their partner leaves," Rose said. "It's incredibly important that we get the message out to say that behaviour like this is not just unacceptable: it's illegal."

The CPS works closely with police and women's charities to stop such behaviour and help victims escape. It calls on communities to look out for vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours during the World Cup. "If you can step in to help, you could be making a life-changing difference," Rose said. She also urged victims to speak out, assuring them of support. "We understand how difficult it can be to report domestic abuse," she added.