Stay safe on the roads during the World Cup

With excitement building for the 2026 World Cup, we are urging football fans to plan ahead, especially if you are enjoying a drink while watching the late night kick offs.

Between January and the end of May, we’ve made 1,242 arrests for drink or drug driving, and with the tournament set to bring longer nights out and more celebrations at pubs and in homes, our officers will be on the roads around the clock to stop drink and drug drivers.

Alcohol can stay in your system much longer than you realise. Even if you wake up feeling fine, you may still be over the limit the next morning. Coffee, fresh air and cold showers do nothing to speed up the process. This is why we are asking everyone to give themselves extra time before getting behind the wheel the morning after.

Our latest campaign focuses on the real consequences of driving while over the limit, particularly the risks that come with the morning after effect. You can remain over the limit for hours after your last drink, and if you are caught driving while over the limit, you could lose your licence, your job and even your freedom. Most importantly, you could seriously injure yourself or someone else.

Throughout the tournament, extra officers will be out on the roads from late at night into the early morning to stop drink and drug drivers before they cause harm.

There is no safe amount of alcohol when it comes to driving. Everyone processes alcohol differently and even one drink can affect your reactions, judgement and coordination. If you are driving, the only safe choice is to avoid alcohol completely.

Driving under the influence of illegal drugs or misused prescription medication is equally dangerous. It can slow your reactions, blur your vision, trigger panic or paranoia, affect your decision making and leave you drowsy.

Officers can carry out roadside drug tests and arrest anyone whose driving appears impaired.

The consequences of being caught are serious. You could face a criminal record, a substantial fine, a driving ban, increased insurance costs and even a prison sentence.

We are asking everyone to plan ahead and make sure they have a safe way home. Book a taxi, arrange a lift or use public transport. Do not take the risk.

Superintendent Jack Hadley, Head of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “Just like on the pitch, one bad decision can change the whole game and cost lives.

"Getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs is never worth the risk. The consequences can be life changing for you, other drivers, and pedestrians.

"Sadly, we still see people willing to gamble with lives, which is why our operations during the World Cup are so important. We are doing everything we can to keep the roads safe, but we need your help.

"If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, report it. It could save lives.”

Read more about our campaign here 👉 Give yourself extra time | West Midlands Police