CIPD urges employers to plan ahead for World Cup 2026

Employers should start considering how they will manage flexible working requests and time off during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

With the tournament expected to attract significant interest from football fans across the UK, the CIPD said organisations should think about how they can balance employee flexibility with operational requirements.

David D’Souza, director of profession at the CIPD, said: “The World Cup is the largest football event in the world and, inevitably, many people may be planning to watch from home, the pub, or may be travelling to attend games.

“The uniquely high level of interest means employers need to think about workforce flexibility and how accommodating they might choose to be for employees who want to watch matches.”

D’Souza said employers could consider temporary adjustments to working arrangements where appropriate.

He added: “Flexibility around working hours, such as earlier finishes or later starts to accommodate evening or early-morning games can often be appreciated, however any flexibility should be proportionate and aligned with business needs.

“Employers should be clear about their expectations and encourage employees to book time off where games, or any after-effects, could affect work performance.”