With the World Cup fast approaching, millions will come together to watch and celebrate the biggest tournament in football. However, alongside the excitement, there is a well-documented and concerning rise in domestic abuse incidents linked to major sporting events.
Research from the National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) highlights a clear correlation between England matches and increases in reported abuse:
• Incidents rise by 26% when England plays
• Increase by 38% if England loses
• Remain elevated (11% higher) the following day, regardless of the outcome
Alcohol consumption, heightened emotions, and the intensity of tournament play are often cited as contributing factors. While these elements may help explain behaviour, they do not excuse it. The law takes a serious approach to domestic abuse in any context.
Domestic abuse encompasses a wide range of behaviour, including physical violence, coercive control, threats, harassment, and emotional abuse. Offences may be prosecuted under various legislation, including:
• Offences Against the Person Act 1861 (assault offences)
• Serious Crime Act 2015 (controlling or coercive behaviour)
• Protection from Harassment Act 1997
• Domestic Abuse Act 2021
Where an offence is committed in a domestic context, this is treated as an aggravating factor by the courts.
Accountability and Alcohol
While alcohol is often a factor in offences committed during major sporting events, it is important to emphasise:
• Voluntary intoxication is not a defence to criminal behaviour.
Individuals remain legally responsible for their actions, regardless of whether they have been drinking.
Sentencing considerations
The Sentencing Council guidelines require courts to consider the seriousness of the offence, the harm caused, and the culpability of the offender.
Where domestic abuse is involved, the courts will take into account:
• The breach of trust between offender and victim
• The vulnerability of the victim
• Any pattern of behaviour or repeat offending
Depending on the nature and seriousness of the offence, sentences can range from community orders to immediate custodial sentences.
Compensation order
The court may impose a Compensation Order requiring the offender to pay financial compensation to the victim. These are made in addition to other penalties and serve to recognise the harm suffered by the victim.
Restraining Order
The courts frequently impose Restraining Orders to protect victims from further harm.
A restraining order can:
• Prohibit contact with the victim
• Prevent the offender from attending certain locations (e.g. the victim’s home or workplace)
• Restrict indirect contact (including via social media or third parties)
Importantly, restraining orders can be imposed even where the defendant is acquitted, if the court considers it necessary to protect the victim.
Breach of a restraining order is a criminal offence, punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment.
Major sporting events should be occasions for celebration. However, the reported increase in domestic abuse allegations during these periods highlights the serious consequences that can follow. Given the significant personal and professional impact of such allegations, obtaining early legal advice is crucial.
Get In Touch
Rachel Fletcher is Managing Partner and Head of our Crime and Regulatory team. She has specialised in private crime and regulatory cases and has advised individuals, director and corporations under investigation from the GMC, The Environment Agency, The General Pharmaceutical Council, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and local councils.
If you would like to speak with Rachel or another member of our Crime and Regulatory team about the above topic, or any other related investigation, please call 03301 627 279 or complete our online contact form.
