Domestic abuse reports in the UK reached a record high during the 2026 World Cup, with 384 incidents recorded, representing 17% of all reports. A staggering 93% of these occurred around England's matches, a worrying increase attributed primarily to alcohol consumption.

Chief Constable Mark Roberts highlighted alcohol as a significant factor and a persistent concern during tournaments. He also expressed frustration over last-minute changes to licensing hours before the Mexico vs. England game, which hindered police planning and the ability to manage potential issues.

Online hate crime also saw its second-highest levels, with 293 incidents reported, primarily related to England matches. While many referrals were reviewed, only a portion met the threshold for prosecution. The data gathered from the 2026 World Cup will be crucial for planning future events like Euro 2028, with a focus on addressing licensing and understanding potential threats from visiting fan groups.