Avon and Somerset Police will carry out enhanced patrols and roadside checks during England’s FIFA Men’s World Cup matches as part of a national crackdown on drink and drug driving.
Operation Limit will see officers deployed before and after games, focusing on hotspot locations, responding to reports of suspected intoxicated drivers and carrying out roadside tests.
The tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, the USA and Canada, began on June 11. Police say major sporting events can lead to increased risk on the roads. Drink and drug driving is one of the “Fatal Five” factors linked to the most serious and fatal collisions. In Avon and Somerset, around a quarter of fatal crashes in 2025 involved drink or drugs.
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Inspector Matt Boiles, of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “Major sporting events can bring people together to celebrate, but there is never an excuse for getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
“We want people to enjoy the football, but we also want everyone to get home safely. If you’re planning to watch a match, think about how you’ll get home afterwards before you head out.
“Whether that’s a designated driver, public transport or a taxi, make a plan and stick to it.
“Our officers will be carrying out proactive patrols and roadside checks throughout the tournament, and we would encourage anyone who suspects somebody is driving under the influence to report it to us.”
Police say those caught driving under the influence face serious consequences, including a ban, fines or imprisonment, while causing death by careless driving under the influence can result in a life sentence.
Police urge football fans to plan their morning journeys in advance
With matches being played across North America, many games will be shown late at night in the UK. England’s opening group match kicks off at 9pm on June 17, raising concerns about “morning-after” drink driving.
Officers are warning that alcohol can remain in the system long after drinking has stopped, meaning drivers may still be over the legal limit the following day.
Inspector Boiles said: “One of the biggest misconceptions we encounter is people believing they are fit to drive simply because they’ve had a few hours’ sleep.
“Going to bed doesn’t wipe the slate clean. Sleep, coffee and a shower do not remove alcohol from your system – only time does.
“If you’ve spent the evening drinking while watching the football, there is a very real possibility you could still be over the legal limit the following morning.
“Our advice is simple – if you’re drinking, don’t drive. Plan your journey home in advance and think about how you’ll get where you need to be the following morning.”
Police will be targeting high-harm offenders
As part of the operation, police will also use intelligence to target high-harm offenders, including individuals linked to violent crime where drink or drug driving forms part of their behaviour.
Forces say major tournaments can coincide with a rise in alcohol-related incidents, including domestic abuse, and the campaign aims to prevent harm both on the roads and in communities.
Inspector Boiles said: “The individuals who pose a risk on our roads are often known to us for other harmful behaviours.
“By using intelligence to target high-harm offenders, we have an opportunity to prevent harm, protect victims and make our communities safer during the tournament.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody said: “Sport gives us a reason to gather with family, friends and neighbours, to share in something bigger than ourselves.
"These moments of connection matter, but that sense of togetherness also carries responsibility. We all have a role to play in keeping our roads safe. My message is simple: if you drink, don’t drive."
Motoring experts have also warned drivers about the risks of getting behind the wheel.
Simon England, founder of ALA Insurance, said: “We agree with Government guidelines that there is no safe limit when drinking and driving, due to the way alcohol affects people differently depending on gender, height, weight, metabolism and other factors."
He added: "The consequences of drink-driving don't stop with points, fines or a driving ban. A collision involving alcohol can leave motorists facing thousands of pounds in costs if damage to their own vehicle is not covered, while future insurance premiums can also rise dramatically.
"It's a risk that's simply not worth taking for the sake of getting behind the wheel too soon after drinking."
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