Sneaky Ways Employees Watch World Cup at Work

Carmen López · 2026-05-25

The World Cup is one of those events that brings the whole world together. But for many employees, it also brings a serious dilemma: how do you catch the big match when you're supposed to be working? A recent report from Business Insider highlighted that workers are getting creative about sneaking away to watch games. And honestly, who can blame them? The excitement is real, and the matches often happen during business hours. Let's be honest: we've all been there. You have a deadline, but your favorite team is playing. Suddenly, every little distraction becomes a valid excuse to step away from your desk. ### The Classic "Doctor's Appointment" Trick One of the oldest tricks in the book is the midday "doctor's appointment." Employees block off an hour or two on their calendars, claiming a checkup. In reality, they're headed to a nearby sports bar or streaming the game on their phone. It's a simple strategy, but it works. Managers rarely question a medical appointment, and it gives you a solid alibi. Plus, you can always say the wait was longer than expected. Another variation is the "personal errand" excuse. Need to pick up dry cleaning? Sure. But you might just be grabbing a seat at the pub for the second half. ### How Technology Makes It Easier Technology has made it incredibly easy to multitask during work hours. With a second monitor or a phone propped up on your desk, you can keep one eye on the game and one on your spreadsheet. - Streaming services on your phone or tablet - Wireless earbuds for audio commentary - Picture-in-picture mode on your laptop These tools let you follow the action without leaving your chair. Of course, you have to be careful not to cheer too loudly during a virtual meeting. ### The Risks of Skipping Out While it might seem harmless, sneaking away to watch the World Cup can backfire. If your boss catches you, it could damage trust or even lead to disciplinary action. Productivity takes a hit too. When you're distracted by a game, your work quality suffers. Mistakes happen, deadlines slip, and your colleagues might end up picking up your slack. *"I once missed a crucial client call because I was watching extra time. It was not worth it."* — Anonymous employee That quote sums up the risk. A few moments of excitement can cost you a lot more than you bargained for. ### A Better Approach: Talk to Your Manager Instead of sneaking around, why not be upfront? Many companies are flexible, especially during big events like the World Cup. You could ask to adjust your hours or work remotely. Some teams even host viewing parties in the break room. It builds camaraderie and keeps everyone happy. Plus, you won't have to worry about getting caught. - Request a flexible schedule - Offer to make up the time later - Suggest a team viewing event Being honest shows responsibility. Your boss might appreciate your transparency more than your excuses. ### What This Means for Employers For managers, this trend is a wake-up call. If employees feel the need to hide their activities, there's a trust issue. Instead of cracking down, consider creating a culture where people can balance work and life. A little flexibility goes a long way. When workers feel respected, they're more likely to stay engaged and productive in the long run. At the end of the day, the World Cup comes every four years. Work will still be there tomorrow. Finding a middle ground benefits everyone.