England football fans could be hit with an unexpected fine this evening as the World Cup knockout phase roars into life.
England football fans are at risk of being slapped with a £5,000 fine tonight as the World Cup knockout phase gets underway. England take on DR Congo this evening in their first knockout match of the 2026 tournament, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham among the fan favourites tipped to score for the Three Lions.
However, experts have warned that should England do well, celebrating behind the wheel could massively backfire in a serious blow. With the game starting at the beginning of rush hour, many are likely to listen to the first half on their way home from the office.
Football fans celebrating could be penalised (Image: Getty)
Although there are no rules around listening to football coverage on the radio or singing along to England anthems, drivers could be penalised if their driving falls below certain standards.
Ben Raffell, automotive expert at BigWantsYourCar.com, said: “The World Cup always creates a fantastic atmosphere, and it’s natural for fans to get excited when England are playing.
“However, drivers need to remember that celebrations behind the wheel can quickly become a distraction. Taking your hands off the steering wheel, dancing in your seat or becoming too focused on the match rather than the road can create unnecessary risks.”
Motorists could be hit with driving without due care and attention if it is considered their actions behind the wheel are affecting their performance on the roads. This may mean taking their eyes off the road, or diverting their full attention from the car in front.
Meanwhile, listening to the radio or music too loudly can make it more difficult to hear important sounds such as emergency service sirens, or horns from other vehicles nearby.
If a distraction contributes to dangerous driving, road users could face fines of up to £5,000 alongside penalty points on their driving licence in a major blow.
Ben added: “Many people don’t realise that distracted driving isn’t limited to mobile phones. Anything that takes your attention away from the road, even for a few seconds, can increase the likelihood of an accident. During major tournaments like the World Cup, emotions can run high, and that’s when drivers need to be especially careful.”