Home / Crime and Justice / World Cup 'Kick Off': Domestic Abuse Soars
World Cup 'Kick Off': Domestic Abuse Soars
4 Jul
Summary
- Awareness campaign links World Cup matches to domestic abuse spikes.
- Studies show domestic violence increases on England match days.
- Heatwaves and alcohol exacerbate domestic violence incidents.
An awareness campaign named "11:37pm: The Other Kick Off" has been launched in London to address the rise in domestic violence during major football tournaments, particularly the World Cup. This initiative by Women's Aid highlights the fear experienced by women and children when abusive partners return home after matches.
Studies, including one from Lancaster University analyzing data from North West England, indicate a significant increase in domestic violence incidents on days when England plays. A 2013 study showed a 38 percent rise following defeats and a 26 percent rise following wins or draws during past World Cups. The National Centre for Domestic Violence also ran a campaign during the 2018 World Cup with the slogan "If England get beaten, so will she."
This phenomenon is not unique to the UK, with UNESCO and UN Women reporting predictable increases in domestic violence globally during major sporting events. In the United States, Mexico, and Canada, host countries for the 2026 World Cup, organizations have coordinated awareness efforts. Furthermore, research suggests that extreme heatwaves can exacerbate domestic violence, with a 1C rise linked to a 5 percent increase in incidents, though experts stress heat does not excuse abuse.
Beyond physical abuse, the World Cup has also shed light on economic abuse. Argentina, for example, provided US authorities with a list of individuals owing child support to prevent them from attending matches in the US, emphasizing consequences for failing to meet fundamental obligations.
