Soccer-related Insurance Claims Spiked During Last World Cup

Football fans are being warned not to score an own goal while they celebrate or commiserate over games, as a major insurer says home insurance claims spiked during the last World Cup.

Accidental damage claims where football played a part jumped by 82% during the previous tournament in 2018, according to Aviva.

Claims related to football rose by 82% in June and July 2018, compared to the monthly average throughout the year.

Electronic equipment, windows and soft furnishings were prone to damage while people enjoyed matches, it said.

Clothing and accessories were also damaged, with incidents including football kits being scorched by tumble dryers and an expensive watch being broken by a football being kicked into it.