Archive · 24 Jul 2026
UK Sees Record Domestic Abuse During 2026 World Cup
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the UK saw a record number of domestic abuse incidents.
The UK Football Policing Unit found that these incidents were linked to increased alcohol consumption because pubs were allowed to stay open later.
For example, during the England vs. Norway match, there were about 300 incidents when pubs stayed open until 2 am.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts said that extended alcohol licensing led to more problems, including domestic abuse.
The UK government's last-minute decision to extend pub hours made it hard for police to plan and prevent crime.
UK recorded 2,322 incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with 384 being domestic abuse cases.
391 arrests were made for domestic abuse-related incidents.
Extended alcohol licensing was linked to increased incidents, especially during late matches.
The England vs. Norway match saw a spike of about 300 incidents when pubs stayed open until 2 am.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts stated that increased alcohol consumption directly correlates with higher domestic abuse incidents.
- Who
- UK Football Policing Unit, Chief Constable Mark Roberts
- What
- Record high domestic abuse incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- When
- During the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- Linked to increased alcohol consumption due to extended alcohol licensing
Alcohol Licensing Extension
Public Safety Concerns
Extended Alcohol Licensing
Alcohol Licensing Extension
Extended alcohol licensing allows fans to celebrate longer and enjoy the tournament atmosphere.
Public Safety Concerns
Extended alcohol licensing leads to increased incidents of domestic abuse and public disorder.
- Total Incidents
- 2,322
- Domestic Abuse Incidents
- 384
- Arrests Made
- 391
- Highest Incidents in Recent Tournaments
- Euro 2020 (2,345 incidents)
- Key Match with High Incidents
- England vs. Norway
