THE RSPCA is renewing its warning to football fans to safely store away goal netting after incidents involving wildlife tangled in football nets during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With England preparing for their next World Cup fixture on Saturday against Panama, the animal charity is reminding Copycat-Kanes, Hopeful Hendersons and Back Garden Bellinghams that unsecured goal netting can pose a serious danger to wildlife.
The call comes as the charity’s Summer of Kindness drive continues.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officers (AROs) Joanna Thorpe and Emma Baker were recently called to a garden in Grundisburgh, Suffolk, after a deer was discovered trapped in football netting, having become tangled around his neck, head and legs, with bleeding around his head and antler buds.
After carefully cutting the deer free from the netting and assessing his condition, the officers were able to release the animal back into the wild.
ARO Joanna said: “It’s fortunate that the poor deer was spotted when he was. The netting had become wrapped around multiple parts of his body and he was clearly distressed.
“Wild animals can quickly panic when they become trapped, which can lead to serious injuries as they struggle to escape. In some cases, animals can suffer fatal injuries or die from stress after becoming entangled.
“Thankfully we were able to free this deer and release him back into the wild, but incidents like this are entirely preventable – and it’s important to know, with the World Cup ongoing, that fans of all ages know how they can help.”
The rescue in Suffolk follows a number of similar incidents attended by the RSPCA, since the World Cup started, including a young fox rescued after becoming trapped in football goal netting in North London.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Nicola Thomas was called to the school on 15 June, after the fox was discovered tightly entangled in football goal netting.
Nicola found that the young fox was struggling to free himself after becoming caught in the mesh. She carefully released him from the netting but, due to concerns about injuries caused by the tight material around his neck, he was taken to Essex Wildlife Hospital for further assessment and treatment.
Thankfully, after receiving care from wildlife experts at the hospital, he made a good recovery and the RSPCA were able to release him back into the wild a few days later.
ARO Nicola Thomas said: “This young fox was very lucky to be found when he was, and we are so grateful to the staff member who alerted us.
“The netting had become tightly wrapped around his neck and it was clear he needed veterinary attention after being freed.
“Young foxes are naturally curious and spend much of their time exploring. Sadly, that means that when hazards such as loose netting are left out, they can be put in danger.
“Thankfully, this fox has made a full recovery and has been able to return to the wild where he belongs. But incidents like this are completely avoidable and we are urging anyone using football goals this summer to take a few moments to put nets and equipment away after use – it could save an animal’s life.”
RSPCA supporter and iconic sports broadcaster, Kirsty Gallacher, supports the RSPCA’s warning, adding that the issue is an important reminder, particularly during major football tournaments.
She said “Throughout my career in sports broadcasting, I have seen how major football tournaments bring people together like nothing else. With the World Cup set to captivate millions of fans this summer – and with England and Scotland both involved – there’ll also be loads of people heading out for a kick about, including in back gardens, local parks and green spaces. But when the game is done, it’s important to remember that goal netting can sadly be really dangerous for wildlife if left out or not put away properly.
Animals, particularly young fox cubs, are naturally curious and can easily become trapped as they explore their local areas. Packing nets and equipment away after use is such a simple thing we can do, but it really can make all the difference in protecting the wildlife sharing our local communities, while still enjoying the beautiful game. It’s a small act that can make a big difference for our nation’s wildlife this summer.”
The charity is also urging members of the public to get involved with helping their local communities this summer, and joining in with a litter pick, as part of the RSPCA’s Summer of Kindness.
Members of the public can also sign up to become an RSPCA Wildlife Friend, the charity’s volunteering scheme aiming to change the lives of animals for the better. By volunteering and taking action for animals in their communities, the microvolunteers taking part will not only be helping wildlife but will also be ensuring that the RSPCA’s frontline staff have more time to focus on tackling cruelty and neglect.
For more information on how litter harms wildlife, visit the RSPCA website, where there is also advice on what to do if you find a sick or injured animal.
