The World Cup Is Getting Serious – Is Your Workplace Ready?

Prepare your workplace for the 2026 World Cup with 7 Steps

The FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and competition is heating up! Whether you’re a football fan or not, there’s no escaping the excitement that comes with one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

For many employees, the tournament will be a major talking point over the coming weeks. From group stage drama to knockout tension, it’s a great opportunity to bring people together, boost morale and create a sense of camaraderie in the workplace.

However, it can also create challenges for employers if expectations aren’t managed properly.

So, how can businesses embrace the World Cup while maintaining productivity and ensuring fairness across the workforce?

1. Consider Flexible Working Where Possible

Major matches can often take place during working hours or finish late into the evening. Where operationally feasible, offering some flexibility around start and finish times can help employees enjoy the tournament without impacting business performance.

Small adjustments can go a long way in supporting employee wellbeing and engagement.

2. Create Opportunities for Team Engagement

Sporting events can be a fantastic way to bring people together.

Whether it’s showing selected matches in a communal space, organising a friendly prediction competition or simply creating opportunities for conversation, the World Cup can help strengthen workplace relationships and team spirit.

3. Be Fair and Consistent

Not everyone will be interested in football, and not everyone will support the same teams.

It’s important to ensure any arrangements are fair and inclusive. Avoid making assumptions about who may want flexibility or time away from work and ensure opportunities are communicated openly to everyone.

Remember, a diverse workforce will have a wide range of interests, backgrounds and priorities.

4. Manage Annual Leave Requests Sensibly

Popular fixtures can lead to an increase in annual leave requests.

Having a clear process for approving leave and communicating expectations early can help avoid disappointment and ensure adequate staffing levels are maintained throughout the tournament.

5. Don’t Forget About Attendance Expectations

While most employees will act responsibly, major sporting events can sometimes lead to increased lateness or short-notice absences.

This is a good opportunity to review attendance policies and ensure managers understand how to deal with any concerns consistently and fairly.

6. Keep Workplace Competitions Compliant

Sweepstakes and prediction competitions can be a fun way to engage teams, but employers should ensure they remain compliant with relevant legislation and workplace policies.

If money is involved, it’s worth checking the rules before launching any workplace competition.

7. Communicate Clearly

As with any workplace initiative, communication is key.

If you’re introducing flexible arrangements, allowing match viewing or running team activities, make sure everyone understands what’s available, how it works and what is expected of them.

Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone has the same opportunity to get involved.

The Final Whistle

The World Cup presents a fantastic opportunity to boost engagement, encourage team connection and create positive workplace experiences.

With a little planning and clear communication, businesses can strike the right balance between supporting employees and maintaining business operations.

Need support navigating people challenges in your business?

Whether it’s managing attendance, implementing flexible working arrangements, supporting employee wellbeing or ensuring your policies are fit for purpose, Holla HR is here to help.

We provide practical, people-focused HR support to businesses that want to build engaged, productive and compliant workplaces.

Get in touch to find out how we can support your business and your people.