As the 2026 World Cup approaches, NHS England has issued a stark reminder to football fans: don't let your love of the game cloud your judgment when it comes to seeking medical attention. A review of attendance data from Euro 2024 reveals that nearly 17,000 fewer people than expected visited emergency departments during national team matches, raising concerns about delayed treatment and unnecessary complications.
The analysis shows a notable decline in A&E visits during England games, with an 11% reduction observed in the hour leading up to kick-off. Specific fixtures also saw significant drops; for example, the group-stage match against Serbia recorded an 8.8% decrease compared to the six-week average. Weekend matches tended to see steeper declines than weekday games.
However, this initial lull was often followed by a surge in demand, with hundreds more patients requiring care after matches concluded. A notable increase in trauma and musculoskeletal attendances suggests that fans may be putting themselves at risk through injuries such as falls or assaults. The biggest spike in admissions during the last Euros occurred between 1am and 2am, when services experienced a 6.3% rise compared to the average for that time period.
NHS England's national clinical lead for urgent and emergency care, Emma Rowland, has issued a clear message: "While we understand that the World Cup is an exciting event, fans must not compromise their health by delaying treatment. We urge people to use our services responsibly and seek help when they need it – whether that's dialling 999 in an emergency or using the NHS 111 online service for non-life-threatening conditions."
The health service's advice aims to prevent unnecessary complications arising from delayed treatment, as well as mitigate the post-match increase in demand. By encouraging fans to enjoy the tournament responsibly and take steps to avoid injuries, NHS England hopes to ensure that emergency care remains accessible to those who truly need it.