13 Jul 2026

As the Football World Cup captures the attention of millions of people across the world, homes, pubs and communities come together in celebration. Flags are proudly displayed, friends gather to watch, and emotions run high with every goal, missed penalty and final whistle. However, no football match whether your team wins, loses or is knocked out of the tournament can ever justify abuse.

Police forces and domestic abuse charities such as Women’s Aid and Llamau have repeatedly highlighted concerns that incidents of domestic abuse can increase during high-profile events. Heightened emotions, excessive consumption of alcohol, drug use and pre-existing abusive behaviour can come together to create dangerous situations within the home. It is important to recognise some crucial facts: football does not cause domestic abuse. Alcohol does not cause domestic abuse. Drugs do not cause domestic abuse. They may lower inhibitions or intensify existing behaviour, but responsibility always lies with the person choosing to abuse another.

Research conducted by Lancaster University found that reports of domestic abuse increase by 26% when England play and win or draw, and also by 38% when England lose during major football tournaments. There is never an excuse.

Abuse Is Never Part of the Game

Domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence. It can include:

• Threats or intimidation.
• Emotional or psychological abuse.
• Coercive or controlling behaviour.
• Financial abuse.
• Sexual abuse.
• Stalking or harassment.
• Repeated verbal abuse or intimidation.

Whether your partner’s team wins or loses, no sporting result justifies making another person feel frightened in their own home.

Children are often the unseen victims during these incidents. Witnessing abuse can have lasting emotional consequences, even if they are not directly harmed.

Understanding a Non-Molestation Order

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, the law in England and Wales provides protection through a Non-Molestation Order. A Non-Molestation Order is designed to protect individuals and children from abuse, threats, intimidation or harassment by someone with whom they have a qualifying family or intimate relationship.

The order can prohibit the respondent from:

• Using or threatening violence.
• Contacting you directly or indirectly.
• Coming near your home or workplace.
• Harassing, intimidating or pestering you.
• Encouraging others to contact or intimidate you on their behalf.

Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence and can lead to arrest, prosecution and imprisonment.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible to apply if the person abusing you is an “associated person” under the Family Law Act 1996. This includes:

• A husband, wife or civil partner.
• A former spouse or former civil partner.
• Someone you live with or previously lived with as a couple.
• A current or former partner.
• The parent of your child.
• Certain family members.
• Someone with parental responsibility for a child.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, an experienced family solicitor can advise you based on your individual circumstances.

What Will the Court Consider?

When deciding whether to grant a Non-Molestation Order, the court will consider factors including:

• Whether domestic abuse has occurred.
• Whether there is an ongoing risk of harm.
• The effect of the abuse on you and any children.
• Whether immediate protection is required.

In urgent situations, the court may make an order without notifying the respondent first. This is known as a “without notice” application and is reserved for circumstances where delaying protection could place someone at greater risk.

You Do Not Need to Wait for Things to Get Worse

Many survivors delay seeking help because they hope the behaviour will stop after the emotions of the match have passed. Sadly, abuse rarely ends without intervention.

If someone has threatened you, frightened you, controlled your finances, monitored your movements, isolated you from family and friends or made you fear for your safety, help is available.

The Final Score

The World Cup should be remembered for moments of sporting brilliance, not for fear behind closed doors. Victory should bring celebration. Defeat should bring disappointment – not violence.

Domestic abuse is always a choice made by the abuser, never by the survivor. If you are living in fear, remember that the law provides protection. A Non-Molestation Order may be an important step towards reclaiming your safety, your confidence and your future.

How Our Family Law Team Can Help

At Rubin Lewis O’Brien Solicitors, we understand that taking the first step can feel overwhelming. Our experienced family law solicitors provide confidential, compassionate and practical advice to people experiencing domestic abuse.

We can advise you on:

• Applying for a Non-Molestation Order.
• Emergency court applications.
• Occupation Orders.
• Child arrangements where domestic abuse is involved.
• Divorce or separation.
• Ongoing safety planning and legal protection.

Every case is different and we take the time to understand your circumstances before advising on the most appropriate way forward.

If You Need Help, We’re Here

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or you are concerned about the safety of someone close to you, seeking legal advice could be the first step towards protection and peace of mind.

Our family law team is here to provide clear advice, explain your legal options and help you obtain the protection you deserve. Contact us today for a confidential discussion with one of our experienced family law solicitors.