When Football Hurts – Domestic Abuse & The World Cup

The World Cup started on Thursday 11 June 2026 and is one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events.

This can be an exciting 5 weeks for many people. bringing together millions of fans to support their national teams. For domestic abuse victims however, it can be a time of fear, anxiety and harm behind closed doors.

In 2025, it was estimated that 3.8 million people aged 16 and over in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse. During football matches, the number of victims increase by 26% if England play, 38% if England lose and 11% the next day, regardless of the outcome of the match.

The existing abusive behaviours of a perpetrator can be triggered by the heightened emotions, alcohol consumption, and stress that football can bring. However, sporting results should never be used as an excuse for abuse.

At Redkite Solicitors, we offer Legal Aid funded support. Legal Aid is government-funded financial assistance to help people who cannot afford to pay for legal advice, family mediation, or court representation. Legal Aid is available to victims of domestic abuse, subject to an assessment of your finances.

If you or a loved one require any help or guidance, please contact our family team here at Redkite Solicitors. Our friendly team of experts

in our family department offer sensitive and compassionate advice, and are here to support you every step of the way.