World Cup 2026: “If you drink, don’t drive”

While I may not be a die-hard football fan, like so many people I find myself swept up in the energy and excitement of major tournaments. The pride of watching our fans in the stadium waving the flag to support the team, the tension of penalty shootouts, the thrill of a winning goal in added time, and the shared moments that bring us together.

That is the power of sport. It gives us a reason to gather with family, friends and neighbours, to share in something bigger than ourselves. At a time when the world can often feel divided, these moments of connection matter.

But that sense of togetherness also carries responsibility.

Because while we may be hoping that football finally comes home, well for the men’s team, we must also make sure that everyone else does too, safely.

Millions of people will be watching matches over the coming weeks, whether that’s at home, in a pub, or at a community event. For many, it will involve a drink. My message is simple: if you drink, don’t drive.

Drink and drug driving is a serious and entirely preventable crime. It ruins lives. Every year, hundreds of people across the UK are killed in collisions where a driver is over the limit, and many more are left with life-changing injuries. Behind every case is a person, a family dealing with consequences that will last a lifetime.

One poor decision can change everything. Alcohol and drugs impair judgement, slow reaction times and increase the risk of a collision. You may feel fine, but that does not mean you are safe to drive.

There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Planning ahead makes all the difference. That might mean using public transport, booking a taxi, arranging a lift, or choosing not to drink at all.

There are now more 0% and low-alcohol options available than ever before. Choosing these means you can still enjoy the atmosphere while making a safe and responsible choice.

And with some of those late-night or early-morning fixtures, it’s important to remember that alcohol can stay in your system far longer than you might expect. Even the next morning, you may not be safe or legal to drive.

We all have a role to play in keeping our roads safe. Looking out for each other is not just part of the celebration, it is part of our responsibility.

These moments of national pride are about coming together. Let’s make sure that, when the final whistle blows, everyone gets home safely.