Distracted fans at risk of losing their one most valuable belonging during World Cup 2026
That roar in the pub is thrilling but it masks the moment a stranger notices what you forgot and decides it is theirs now.
As World Cup matches draw fans into pubs and public screenings across the UK, opportunist car thieves are ready to pounce, a former top traffic cop has warned. England’s last major final drew a peak TV audience of 24 million, with research finding that 12% of Euro 2024 final viewers watched in a venue such as a bar or pub.
This summer’s World Cup could see similar numbers in homes and venues across the country, and now former police interceptor Ben Pearson, recommends that car owners be extra vigilant and careful. The Nextbase Police Advisor says motorists could easily score an own goal my making car parking mistakes that put their vehicle in danger. He said: “World Cup matches create a predictable window where drivers are distracted and cars are left unattended."
The risk depends on where you leave your vehicle, and car crime is not just about the whole vehicle being stolen. Analysis of more than seven million car insurance quotes found that claims include not only stolen vehicles, but also belongings being taken from cars and vandalism.
“Our research found that 41% of 25 to 34 year olds leave cash or wallets in their car, while 31% leave mobile phones. If someone drives to the pub, decides to get a lift home, and leaves the car overnight, those items can quickly turn a parked car into a target.”
Ben says that so-called relay theft – where thieves use a computer to crack the signal for a keyless vehicle - is still a risk if the key devices are left close to the front door.
Nextbase research found 37% of drivers store keys in high-risk places, such as near the front door, while 39% have heard of relay theft but taken no precautions.
Keep keys away from doors, windows and letterboxes, and use a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking box if you have one.
He also says if your car feels exposed or you are leaving it for several hours, consider using a visible deterrent such as a steering wheel lock.
Pub car parks and nearby streets can become higher-risk areas on busy match nights, with more people and vehicles moving around in the dark after full time.
If some drivers are leaving after drinking, there may also be a greater chance of accidental damage, including clipped wing mirrors, scratches, dents or vandalism such as keying.
The expert advises parking in a well-lit, visible space, ideally near the entrance or CCTV, and avoid dark overflow car parks, tight corners or narrow streets.
And it is crucial to remove valuables before going inside to watch a match. Even coats, bags, football shirts, chargers or loose change can make a car more attractive to opportunistic thieves.
If you need to leave items in the car, put them in the boot before you arrive, rather than moving them in view once you have parked and could be being watched.
Nextbase research found 44% of car owners have not taken any security measures to protect their vehicle.
Ben added: “Taking simple steps such as parking carefully, removing valuables, using a steering wheel lock where needed and using a dash cam with parking mode can help reduce the risk while you are watching the match.
“Most importantly, use common sense. If a parking spot, route back to the car or situation around your vehicle does not feel safe, do not park there, leave if you can, or avoid approaching the vehicle until it is safe.
“A dash cam with parking mode can help record movement or impact around the vehicle when you are away from it. It will not replace basic security precautions, but it can act as a visible deterrent and provide useful footage if someone damages, breaks into or tampers with your car.”
