North Yorkshire Police is ready for an ‘odd’ World Cup amid a zero-tolerance warning on anti-social or criminal behaviour.
A Chief Inspector of North Yorkshire Police has said the force is prepared for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday 11th June, 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.”
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.
Main section of A59 Kex Gill route set to open 'within weeks'
Harrogate Ladies' College celebrates best A*-A results in four years
Ashville pupils heading around the world after A Level success
Students celebrate A Level success at St Aidan's and St John Fisher
Everything you need to know about Symphonic Ibiza this weekend
Eight Ripon Grammar students achieve four A*s or more
Harrogate Grammar celebrates strong A-level results
Ripon pupil overcomes anxiety to pursue Paris dream
More details revealed about Harrogate's Christmas ice rink in Valley Gardens
GALLERY: Hundreds gather at Almscliffe Crag for view of solar eclipse
Ripon Summer FunFest returns for sixth year
Extreme heat to cause disruption on Harrogate train line
Firework Championships to light up skies over Ripon next weekend
Harrogate MP calls for Lifeline changes to be put on hold
Harrogate streets targeted in £27,500 chewing gum clean-up
New co-working space opens in Ripon city centre
Harrogate Cat Rescue receives year's supply of food for 80 cats
Covered ice rink to open in Harrogate's Valley Gardens this Christmas
Ripon's Jaflong named 'Best Bangladeshi Restaurant of the Year'
Rise in number of children in care contributes to Council's £10m overspend forecast
