World Cup drink-drive warning as young drivers say risks are ‘exaggerated’

New research suggests younger drivers are more likely to believe the risks of drink-driving are exaggerated, particularly around the “morning after”, despite alcohol potentially leaving motorists over the legal limit and still impaired.

The findings come as experts warn football fans celebrating the 2026 World Cup not to drink and drive, urging supporters to plan their journeys home after matches and avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking.

With England’s final group-stage match against Panama kicking off at 10pm BST tomorrow (27 July), many fans are expected to watch in pubs or at parties before heading home late.

While attention often focuses on driving after drinking on the night itself, road safety experts stress the following morning can be just as dangerous.

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Many ignore the advice

The research from insurance company Direct Line found that 40% of drivers planning to watch the match expect to drive the next morning. However, only 37% say they are confident they know whether they are under the legal drink-drive limit, while 39% admit they are unsure how long alcohol takes to leave the body.

The research suggests many motorists rely on instinct rather than evidence when deciding if they are fit to drive the morning after drinking. Around 36% say they judge whether they are safe to drive based on how they feel too.

Almost one in three (32%) drivers also say they trust their own judgement more than official advice when deciding if they are safe to get behind the wheel. Among Gen Z drivers, that rises to 47%.

Kevin Mead, head of motor at Direct Line said: “The reality is that there is no set number of units that can guarantee someone will be fit to drive the morning after drinking alcohol.

“Even if two people consume the same amount, they can still process it very differently as factors such as age, food consumed, and the speed at which they drink can all affect how much alcohol remains in their system.

“The advice is simple – never drive the following morning if you’re unsure it is safe to do so.”

Safety limits are misjudged

The findings also revealed misconceptions around how much alcohol people believe they can safely consume. One in five (20%) drivers said they would feel comfortable driving the next morning after drinking 12 units the previous evening – roughly six pints of beer or more than a bottle of wine – despite potentially still being over the legal limit.

Younger drivers appeared particularly relaxed about the risks. Around 41% of Gen Z motorists believe the dangers of driving the day after drinking are often exaggerated, while half think there is little risk if they do not drink heavily. Around 50% also say it is common among their peers to drive the morning after heavy drinking.

The warning comes as government figures show drink-drive deaths have reached their highest level since 2009, with alcohol contributing to around one in five fatal road crashes.

Road safety charity GEM Motoring Assist is urging supporters to make travel plans before heading out to watch matches.

James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, said: “The excitement of the World Cup is something we all want to share, but with kick-off times pushing well into the evening, the temptation to get behind the wheel after a few celebratory drinks is very real.

“Don’t forget the morning after, either. A late night watching the football with a few drinks could easily mean you’re still over the limit when you get in the car for work the next morning, so if in doubt, leave the car at home.”

Top tips for football fans

Here are some quick tips for you to keep in mind:

• Plan how you’ll get home the next morning before you start drinking
• Be realistic about how much you’ll drink and when you’ll stop.
• Arrange a backup option (taxi, public transport, lift or staying over).
• Keep track of what you’re drinking and how long for.
• Avoid untracked drinking such as rounds.
• Eat food and drink water, but don’t rely on this to sober up.
• Remember alcohol can stay in your system long after you stop drinking.
• Don’t assume a night’s sleep means you’re safe to drive.
• If you’ve been drinking heavily or late, assume driving may not be safe the next day.
• Don’t rely on how you feel or lack of hangover symptoms.
• If you’re unsure you’re under the limit, don’t drive.

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