Suffolk police urge football fans to enjoy the 2026 FIFA World Cup and respect others

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now in full swing, Suffolk police are reminding football fans to enjoy the matches, behave appropriately and respect others.

Officers want everybody to enjoy themselves during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicked off on Thursday 11 June, and are reminding supporters to celebrate safely, be drink aware and respect others.

Chief Superintendent Janine Wratten said: “The World Cup is a global celebration recognising great football, great players and different cultures, let’s make sure this is the same in Suffolk and that we all show respect for each other.

“We know these occasions can provide moments of high emotion, so by all means support your team, but also please be considerate of others. There is no excuse for allowing these emotions to spill over into anti-social behaviour, hurting other people or damaging property.

“Any abusive behaviour on any level will not be tolerated – whatever the time of year and whatever the occasion.”

Officers are asking people who are out-and-about to be aware of their alcohol consumption and plan ahead accordingly. This means knowing how they’re going to get home at the end of the evening and being drink-aware. So, keep track of the units of alcohol consumed at a match to calculate when the effects of any alcohol have worn off and it’s safe to drive.

Many of the matches, including those of the home nations, take place late at night and in the early hours of the morning, so people who consume alcohol during the matches may find they’re still over the drink-drive limit the morning after.

Officers have also been working with licensed premises ahead of the tournament to try to maintain the safety of customers and staff. However, licensed premises showing games also have the responsibility to do so in a safe and responsible manner without adversely impacting on the enjoyment of their customers and the wider public.

Posters aimed at encouraging people to enjoy the tournament safely and responsibly have been put together which are available at the bottom of this page.

The public can be reassured that officers are well-versed in policing major events.

If you see a crime taking place, you can report the incident via the website here: https://www.suffolk.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contact-us/report-crime-incident-suspicion/

You can also telephone Suffolk police on 101. In an emergency you should always call 999.