Ofcom has written to social media companies reminding them of their legal responsibilities to tackle online abuse and illegal hate content during the 2026 World Cup, which begins on June 11, 2026 [1, 2]. The regulator highlighted the heightened risks of online abuse around major sporting events, especially targeting Black and minority ethnic players, as well as abuse based on sexual orientation or disability [1].
High-profile players including Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho faced racial abuse online after England’s penalty shootout loss in Euro 2020 [1, 2]. More recently, England women’s international Jess Carter suffered malicious online abuse during the 2025 Women's Euros, which impacted her wellbeing and caused her to avoid leaving her hotel room [1, 2].
Oliver Griffiths, director of Ofcom’s online safety group, stressed the legal duties social media firms now hold under the Online Safety Act. He said, “No one should have to put up with the awful online abuse that we've seen directed towards so many people who work in sport. It can leave them feeling unable to do their jobs, unable to express themselves and even afraid to leave their homes. Tech firms now have a legal duty to deal with illegal hate and abuse.” Griffiths urged users to report illegal content seen during the World Cup to the relevant platforms and warned Ofcom will hold companies to account if they fail to act [2].
Mark Bullingham, CEO of the Football Association, said players deserve to compete without facing hateful or discriminatory online attacks. He welcomed Ofcom’s vigilance and said, “Service providers must take the necessary steps to create a safer online experience for them -- and all England fans -- during this tournament.” [2]
Ofcom plans to monitor social media firms’ compliance through a live compliance program and share information with the Football Association and UK Football Policing Unit [1]. The 2026 World Cup’s kickoff on June 11 marks the start of intensified scrutiny on online safety issues related to players and football fans.
