The 'other kick-off': NGOs warn of domestic violence spike during World Cup

An England supporter watches the television broadcast of the 2026 World Cup match between England and Panama at a pub in Hebburn, north-east England, 27 June. AFP - SCOTT HEPPELL

With the World Cup in full swing, several NGOs have launched awareness campaigns to prevent domestic abuse – incidents of which studies have shown increase on match nights.

As England began its pursuit of World Cup glory, large panels could be seen in London's streets displaying the words "11:37pm: The Other Kick Off".