Is Your Workplace World Cup Ready?
Every four years, the FIFA World Cup captures the attention of millions around the country. Whether employees are planning to watch every match or debating who will bring it home, the World Cup can boost employee morale and strengthen workplace relationships through shared support of national teams.
With England through to the knockout stages of the World Cup tournament, it’s worthwhile to think about some workplace challenges football fever could bring, from last minute absences and dress code questions to heated exchanges between football fans. As the matches now bring each team closer to bringing the trophy home, proactive planning can help employers anticipate challenges and reduce risk to minimise disruption to business.
Unexpected Absence
With the 2026 tournament hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, many of England’s fixtures have been kicking off well past CoLaw’s bedtime (don’t judge, we work hard!) Late nights and alcohol consumption can result in an increase in short-term absence. It’s important not to jump to conclusions when managing any absence, however when patterns emerge after key fixtures, this may prompt a more formal review of the employee’s attendance record.
Through return-to-work meetings, following absence procedures and treating each case of absence consistently, employers can ensure absence is managed fairly and compliantly. There are costly consequences to dealing with absences inconsistently from claims of discrimination, unfair dismissal or breach of trust. Not only that, but inconsistent handling of employee absence can also result in decreased morale of employees, which can impact job performance and reduce productivity.
To ensure managers are handling absences legally, regular training is paramount. With the Employment Rights Act 2025 bringing in key changes to absence legislation, including the recent day-one right to SSP (Statutory Sick Pay), line management training should be regularly refreshed.
Time Off Requests
It’s not unusual for employees to ask for annual leave, flexible working or shift swaps during the World Cup, especially if matches are scheduled during working hours.
When business needs allow, accommodating these requests is a simple way to boost engagement and morale. However, employers are not required to accept these requests.
If leave must be declined because of staffing levels or operational needs, decisions should be based on clear business reasons. Having a fair system for approving leave requests can help avoid disappointment and potential grievances.
Conflict
Football fans are known for being passionate. With passion and rivalry sometimes conflict is inevitable between fans. All employees should be reminded of the standards that are in place in terms of behaviour and what behaviour will not be tolerated. Employees should also be reminded of the consequences of misconduct in the workplace.
Managers should be re-briefed about how to manage conflict between employees. Annual line management refresher training can ensure managers retain the skills and knowledge to effectively manage their team and maintain workplace harmony to avoid grievances and costly tribunals.
Football Shirts in the Office
Many workplaces enjoy embracing the tournament with decorations and football shirts. Whilst this can be a bit of fun, employers should consider whether football shirts are appropriate for public and/or client facing roles and whether this would impact on health and safety regulations.
Allowing football shirts in the office could also create security risks, making unauthorised visitors more difficult to identify; this can put both the workplace and employees at risk. Employers can refuse to allow football shirts and ban the decoration of offices. If this is to be the case, it should be communicated to employees early and clearly to avoid confusion.
The World Cup is in full swing. Whilst this brings excitement to many, late night matches, managing leave requests, conflict between fans and football shirts can all raise HR and employment law problems.
If you need guidance on any of the issues raised, or would like to discuss how CoLaw can support your business through World Cup season and beyond, call us today on 01509 861262 or email hello@colaw.co.uk.