Police announce special operation for World Cup

A dedicated policing operation will be in place throughout the Thames Valley during the World Cup, the force behind the scheme has said.

The 2026 World Cup kicks-off on Thursday, with England's first game of the tournament taking place in Dallas against Croatia on 17 June.

During the competition, Thames Valley Police said the public could "expect firm, fair and friendly policing throughout" as part of a special operation.

The force said the dedicated policing plan would be supported by additional resources and investigation teams across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

Supt Ade Hall, who is leading the operation, said: "We are well prepared for the World Cup and have well-rehearsed and robust plans in place to help keep people safe while they enjoy the tournament."

"We're not here to spoil anyone's fun, but we will take action where behaviour crosses the line into intimidation, violence or public disorder."

The force said it was expecting live match screenings across the region, with busy venues and increased footfall in town centres and public spaces also predicted.

It said it was "working closely" with venues to "create safe spaces, encourage people to drink responsibly and deal with any issues quickly".

"We would ask people to remain vigilant, look out for one another and report anything suspicious to us," Hall said.

"Alcohol often plays a part in incidents during major events, so we're urging everyone to drink responsibly and plan ahead, particularly when it comes to getting home safely.

Alongside working with licensed venue, the operation will also see welfare checks on vulnerable people who the force know might be at an increased risk for domestic abuse around the tournament.

Det Supt Holly Stockwell, from the force, said: "We know that football isn't the cause of domestic abuse, but the behaviour associated with it, like increased alcohol use, or heightened emotions, can increase the risk for some victims, who are already living in an abusive relationship."

"We want people to know they are not alone," she added.