As the 2026 FIFA World Cup captures global attention, Sonas is raising concerns about the heightened risk of domestic violence incidents during major sporting tournaments and is urging communities, employers, policymakers and frontline services to remain alert and responsive throughout the competition.
Research conducted internationally has shown a correlation between major football tournaments and increases in reported domestic abuse incidents. A landmark study examining domestic abuse found a statistically significant rise in incidents on match days – the study ‘found two statistically significant trends. A match day trend showed the risk of domestic abuse rose by 26% when the English national team won or drew, and a 38% increase when the national team lost. Secondly a tournament trend was apparent, as reported domestic abuse incidents increased in frequency with each new tournament.’
Other research has identified similar patterns across multiple countries, suggesting the issue extends beyond any single jurisdiction or sporting culture – A 2024 study found, ‘On average, domestic abuse between current partners peaks 8 to 10 hours after the game.’
Sonas said international evidence points to the need for proactive awareness and preventative action rather than waiting for harm to escalate.
According to Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Sonas, major sporting events can create circumstances in which abusive behaviour intensifies, particularly where coercive control, alcohol consumption, emotional volatility, financial stress or pre-existing abusive dynamics already exist within relationships.
“Football does not cause domestic violence, and the overwhelming majority of supporters enjoy sporting events safely and respectfully,” said Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Sonas. “However, we cannot ignore the growing body of evidence which suggests that major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup can coincide with spikes in domestic abuse incidents. For victim-survivors already living in fear, periods of heightened tension in the home can represent a very real increase in risk.”
O’Malley emphasised that domestic abuse should never be excused by alcohol, disappointment, sporting outcomes or heightened emotions.
“Domestic violence is about power and control. No result on a pitch ever excuses intimidation, coercion, threats or violence in the home. We want anyone experiencing fear or abuse to know that support is available and that they do not have to face it alone,” she added.
Sonas is encouraging friends, family members, neighbours and colleagues to remain conscious of possible warning signs during the tournament period, including sudden withdrawal, increased anxiety, visible distress or unexplained absences from work or social settings.
Sonas is also calling on employers and community organisations to ensure staff are aware of domestic violence supports and referral pathways, recognising that workplaces are often trusted spaces where disclosures first occur. Sonas provides corporate training on domestic violence awareness and support, which can be booked on its website, https://domesticabuse.ie/our-services/training-awareness/
“Awareness saves lives,” O’Malley said. “If we know there may be periods of increased risk, then we have a responsibility to act early, communicate clearly and ensure supports are visible and accessible. Prevention begins with recognising the signs and creating environments where people feel safe to seek help.”
Sonas reiterated that anyone in immediate danger should contact emergency services and encouraged anyone affected by domestic abuse to reach out to specialist supports. Sonas’s helpline number is 1800 222 223.