RSPCA attends string of football netting rescues as World Cup fever continues

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 tonight (Saturday, June 27) 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 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 (pictured above).

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.

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 micro-volunteers 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.