First published on Thursday, July 24, 2025
Last updated on Thursday, July 24, 2025
After battling through the semis, England’s Lionesses are ready for their third major final in a row.
And their fans are preparing for another nailbiter. As the final is being played on a Sunday, an extra 16% of fans are taking Monday off to celebrate (or commiserate).
BrightHR absence data from thousands of UK businesses shows that 73,293 people have booked time off on Monday 28 July, the day after the Euro 2025 final. That’s 16% higher than the Monday average for the rest of June and July, making it the most popular Monday for planned time off so far this summer.
It looks like fans are planning their time more than in Euro 2021, when employee lateness, sickness, and unexpected absences all rose. According to BrightHR data, the day after last week’s semi-final saw the lowest sickness rate for a Wednesday in July so far. It’s a far cry from the men’s Euro final in 2021 between England and Italy, when the morning after saw a 232% spike in sickness and a 209% rise in staff lateness.
So, with summer sport in full swing, how can employers make sure they have a full team on the pitch?
Plan ahead
While England Coach Wiegman left the subs late in the semis, you’ve got enough time to plan and make sure you’re fully staffed. Set out a clear policy that outlines your expectations around absences. Download our free absence policy template if you don’t have one already.
Keep an eye on team welfare
England defender Jess Carter has taken a step back from social media after experiencing racial abuse. The Lionesses came out with a team statement of support: “Representing our country is the greatest honour. It is not right that while we are doing that, some of us are treated differently simply because of the colour of our skin.”
So, what should you do if a member of your team has experienced abuse? It’s important to let them know they’re not alone. Show that you are actively protecting them from harassment and provide support and adjustments if needed. Your employees could benefit from a confidential chat with a counsellor through an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). BrightHR’s network of 2,150 counsellors and psychologists is trusted by over 70,000 organisations. We support employees and their families with mental health and wellbeing support, financial and life coaching, and career and leadership development.
Field a full squad
Tracking team attendance can help you keep track of rotas and absences. Using clocking in and out software will help you spot patterns of lateness or absence.
But if you suspect someone is off for a reason that’s not genuine, tread carefully. Disciplinary action against a genuine sickness case could have legal consequences and financial penalties if you don’t follow due process. And nobody wants penalties.
If you’re looking for legal advice, contact our 24/7 employment law service and advice line. Our advisors are always available with quick, reliable advice that will cut out uncertainty.
Find a safe pair of hands
Whether fans of the Lionesses are feeling pumped or deflated on Monday, it looks as if they’ll have a day to recover, with time off responsibly booked through BrightHR.
If you need support managing absences this summer, check out our attendance and absence management software. It comes with integrated clocking in and out software, legal advice and documentation and wellbeing support. So, you’ll have all the information you need in the palm of your hand before you know it.
Find out more and book a demo here. In the words of Kevin Keegan, the tide is in your court now.
