Heading over to the World Cup? Why standard travel cover might not be enough

Sending employees to global sporting events, such as the FIFA World Cup and other major events, can be an exciting opportunity for your business, but it also carries unique risks. Many companies assume their standard corporate travel insurance will provide adequate protection. Unfortunately, that’s often not the case.

In this article, we’ll explore why standard travel cover falls short, the common gaps in policies and the key exposures businesses face when sending staff to major events. Plus, we’ll share practical steps to ensure your organisation is properly protected.

Why major events increase travel risk

Large-scale events attract millions of visitors, creating an environment where risks multiply.

Here are some of the biggest challenges:

• Heightened security threats: Terrorism, civil unrest and political demonstrations are more likely during global events.
• Transport disruption: Strikes, traffic congestion and last-minute cancellations can leave employees stranded.
• Accommodation shortages: Hotels fill up quickly, and prices surge, making last-minute changes costly.
• Cybercrime and theft: High-profile events are prime targets for cyberattacks and opportunistic theft.

Employers also have a legal duty of care to protect employees travelling for work, as outlined in ISO 31030:2021 Travel Risk Management guidelines.

Common gaps in standard travel insurance policies

While standard travel insurance covers basics like medical emergencies and trip cancellations, it often excludes critical protections needed for major events, such as:

• Event cancellation or postponement: If the World Cup match or conference is cancelled due to political unrest or health concerns, standard cover rarely reimburses associated costs.
• Extended accommodation and travel costs: Employees stranded by transport strikes or security lockdowns may face significant out-of-pocket expenses.
• Security and emergency evacuation: Crisis management and evacuation services are typically not included in basic policies.
• High-value equipment and cyber risks: Employees often carry laptops and sensitive data. Standard policies usually exclude cyber incidents or specialist equipment loss.
• Enhanced medical and repatriation cover: In countries with limited healthcare infrastructure, standard cover may not provide sufficient support.

Key exposures for employees

• Financial loss: Unplanned accommodation, transport and security costs can escalate quickly.
• Reputational damage: Failure to meet duty of care obligations can harm your brand.
• Employee well-being: Stress and safety concerns impact morale and productivity.

Government guidance stresses the importance of tailored travel insurance for overseas trips, especially for high-risk destinations and events.

How to protect your business

1. Review existing policies: Check exclusions for event-related disruptions, terrorism and crisis response.
2. Upgrade to specialist cover: Look for policies that include political evacuation, security assistance and extended travel disruption benefits.
3. Implement a travel risk management plan: Align with ISO 31030 standards to demonstrate compliance and protect employees.

Don’t leave your business exposed. If you’re planning to send employees to the World Cup or any major event, now is the time to review your travel insurance. Speak to L Wood today about specialist corporate travel cover that protects your people and your organisation, no matter where the game takes them.

We can be reached by phone on 01274 515747, by phone at mail@lwood.co.uk or feel free to request a callback using our online contact form.