North Yorks Police ready for ‘odd’ World Cup amid anti-social warning

​A Chief Inspector of North Yorkshire Police has said the force is prepared for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday, June 11, and will “wait and see” what demands it faces.

​With 13 different kick-off times, some matches will start at 5pm (BST) while others will not get underway until 5am.

​Speaking to coastal councillors last week, Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector Lucy McNeill said: “It is a real unknown, because we have never had one like this, with matches at such different times over the course of the night.”

​Chair of the Scarborough and Whitby Area Committee, Cllr Liz Colling, asked how the force would address cases of domestic abuse.

She said: “With the World Cup and lots of drinking, are we expecting a peak in domestic abuse, is that the pattern, and how do we resource support for that?

​Chief Inspector McNeill said: “I think it is a bit of an odd World Cup this year as the matches are happening at really strange and different times.

​“It is a bit of an unknown as to what impact that is going to have on spikes in domestic abuse, the level of drinking, and the demand on police and other agencies as well.”

​She added that North Yorkshire Police will have “some additional staff on for some of the key matches, that we think will be very popular, but really a lot of it is wait and see”.

​Anyone experiencing domestic abuse is encouraged to contact NYP at https://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contact-us/.

​Chief Superintendent Fiona Willey, of North Yorkshire Police, said fans and residents could expect “firm, fair and friendly policing” which was particularly focused on keeping the nighttime economy safe.

​Anti-social or criminal behaviour will not be tolerated, she added.

​Chief Superintendent Willey commented: “As we approach the start of the World Cup, it’s important to remember that our town and city centres are shared spaces, with people celebrating, working, visiting and going about their lives. A little respect goes a long way towards making sure everyone can enjoy a safe and enjoyable night.

​”Sadly, for some people, major football tournaments can also be a time when the risk of domestic abuse increases. While football itself doesn’t cause domestic abuse, certain behaviours linked to these events, such as alcohol use, can make abuse more likely.

​“Our priority is to support and protect anyone who may be at risk, and to use all available powers to identify and arrest those who cause harm.”

​According to the women’s aid charity Solace, when England lose a World Cup game, incidents of domestic violence increase by 38 per cent and by 26 per cent when they win.

​The charity said that major sporting events are “the catalyst for a rise in domestic violence”.

In 2024, Women’s Aid launched the ‘No More Years of Hurt’ campaign highlighting the spike in domestic abuse during big football games.

​Women can call The Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge on 0808 2000 247 for free at any time, day or night. The staff will offer confidential, non-judgemental information and support.

​Men can call Respect Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 (Monday to Friday 10am to 8pm) for non-judgemental information and support.