Swedes skip work when soccer fever takes hold, statistics agency says

Swedish employers are preparing for a potential wave of short-term absences from work as the country gets swept up in World Cup fever. Analysis by Statistics Sweden, the government's official statistics agency, reveals a significant increase in employee absences during major soccer tournaments over the past two decades.

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Short absences from work were 19 per cent in weeks in June and July when no championship was taking place, while it was 27 per cent in weeks when there was a football championship.

Swedes, known for their emphasis on work-life balance, are expected to either start their summer holidays earlier or take occasional days off to watch the games. This trend is particularly likely given that many matches are scheduled during European night hours. Sweden currently leads Group F after a strong opening win.

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It's crazy what a championship can do for Sweden, for the whole of Sweden.

Statistics Sweden found that short absences from work were 19% in weeks without a championship in June and July, but jumped to 27% in weeks with a football championship. The agency crunched numbers from 2005 to 2025, concluding that the odds of a short absence are a substantial 57% higher during weeks featuring an international football championship compared to other weeks in the same summer months.

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It's just so cool to see everyone together, and how important and powerful it can be, and hopefully we can give more joy to the country and win more matches for them.

While acknowledging that absences cannot be solely attributed to the championship, statistician Lena Johansson noted that the data clearly shows an increased likelihood of absence in connection with major tournaments. Player Anthony Elanga expressed excitement about the national unity and joy the championship brings, hoping the team can deliver more wins for the country.

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Absences from work during a European or World Cup football championship cannot be completely linked to the championship itself. However, statistics show that the odds of absence increase in connection with a European championship or World Cup.