Domestic abuse rises significantly during England football matches, according to research by Lancaster University, with cases increasing by 26% when England play and by 38% when they lose. The issue resurfaced following England's exit from the 2026 World Cup after a semi-final defeat to Argentina in Atlanta, with charity workers warning that some women and girls live in fear during major tournaments, and campaigners stressing that responsibility lies with perpetrators rather than the sport itself.

More than 300 domestic abuse offences linked to football behaviour were reported to police during Euro 2024, according to the National Police Chiefs' Council, and Solace charity worker Rebecca Goshawk expects similar levels for this World Cup. She noted that alcohol consumption and feelings of disappointment can fuel aggressive behaviour, while abuse can be emotional as well as physical. The Crown Prosecution Service, which charges four out of every five domestic abuse cases referred by police, said such behaviour includes coercive control and emotional blackmail, and urged both victims and wider communities to recognise and challenge it.