Did you know that domestic abuse in England increases dramatically when the men’s football team loses?
Harry Kane of England looks dejected after defeat to Spain during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
On Sunday, July 14 the England men's football team crashed out of the Euros final for the second time in a row, with Spain winning 2-1.
via Women's Aid
When the team loses, abuse increases by 38%, according to research by the University of Lancaster.
English fans gathered at the O2 Arena, watch the UEFA EURO 2024 Final football match between Spain and England, in London, United Kingdom on July 14, 2024. (Photo by Rasid Necati Aslim/Anadolu via Getty Images)
When they win or draw, it still increases by 26%.
Excitement Mounts As England Prepare To Take On Russia In The Euros via Getty Images
Studies have shown that abuse is highest about 10 hours after a game, often fueled by abusers having drunk alcohol while watching the match.
An England fan reacts after watching the UEFA Euro 2024 final football match between Spain and England being played in Berlin, during a screening at the O2 Arena in London on July 14, 2024. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP)
Charities that support victims say that this happens due to people being strongly invested in England's performance.
Fans of England react after Nico Williams of Spain (not pictured) scores his team's first goal as England face Spain in the men's UEFA Euro. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
When that is combined with increased alcohol intake, it can lead to heightened emotions and situations that escalate to domestic violence, especially when the team loses.
Excitement Mounts As England Prepare To Take On Russia In The Euros via Getty Images
When that is combined with increased alcohol intake, it can lead to heightened emotions and situations that escalate to domestic violence, especially when the team loses.
Riot police observe unruly England supporters in front of a trash can in Leicester Square ahead of the England vs Italy Euro 2020 football final match. (Photo by Vuk Valcic/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Charities and helplines in the UK have reported a significant spike in calls during major football tournaments.
Fans of England react as England faced Spain in the men's UEFA Euro 2024 final at Fontana de Oro pub on July 14, 2024 in Madrid . The match was held at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. (Photo by Patricia J. Garcinuno/Getty Images)
During the last Euros in 2021, one charity said it saw a 79% rise in helpline calls and referrals.
UK government statistics show that 1 in 4 women experience domestic abuse during their lifetime.
Alvaro Morata of Spain lifts the UEFA Euro 2024 Henri Delaunay Trophy after his team's victory. (Photo by Michael Regan - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Rights groups are calling for more awareness around the issue and changing the existing misogynistic attitudes within football culture.
Kassy Cho
