Now that the 2026 World Cup has kicked off, ACAS is urging employers to plan ahead to avoid disruption in the workplace. For many businesses, major sporting events like this bring a familiar mix of excitement—and operational challenges.

From increased holiday requests to late arrivals after late-night matches, the key message is simple: prepare early and manage expectations clearly.

According to ACAS, employers should have clear, simple workplace agreements in place before the tournament begins. These should cover:

The aim is to strike a balance between maintaining productivity and keeping employees engaged during a high-profile event.

With matches taking place across North America, UK kick-off times will range from early evening through to the early hours of the morning, increasing the likelihood of tiredness, lateness and last-minute absences.

ACAS suggests that employers may benefit from being more flexible during the tournament—where operationally possible. Options could include, allowing staff to start later or finish earlier, letting employees make up hours at another time, permitting shift swaps (with approval), and providing agreed break times to follow key matches. However, consistency is crucial. Any flexibility should be applied fairly across all employees—not just football fans.

While flexibility can help, ACAS is clear that attendance and conduct policies still apply.

Employers are encouraged to:

Any unusual patterns of absence or repeated lateness should be investigated and may lead to formal action if necessary. There is also a reminder around workplace behaviour—particularly if staff have been watching matches late into the night or socialising that employees must not attend work under the influence of alcohol, and workplace policies on conduct and discipline remain in force.

This is where a reliable time and attendance system becomes invaluable. During busy periods like the World Cup, businesses need accurate, real-time visibility—not guesswork. 

Key benefits include:

✔ Clear tracking of lateness and absence patterns
Quickly identify trends and address issues early

✔ Consistent enforcement of policies
Ensure fairness across all staff, reducing risk of disputes

✔ Accurate records for decision-making
Vital if disciplinary action becomes necessary

✔ Support for flexible working arrangements
Track adjusted hours, shift swaps and time owed

A well-implemented system ensures that any decisions made are backed by accurate data—protecting both the employer and the employee.

Handled well, major events like the World Cup don’t have to be disruptive. In fact, they can boost morale and engagement. The key is balance is to set clear expectations, communicate early, and apply rules consistently. Use the right tools to stay in control and with the right approach, and the right systems in place, businesses can keep operations running smoothly while still allowing staff to enjoy the event.

It may be too late for the World Cup of 2026, but it'll soon be the 2027 Women's World Cup and people will be cheering on the Lionesses, and then 2028 we'll be back to the Euro's.

For a free chat, just give us a call and we'll help you manage your workforce during throughout these major sporting events.