Unless the Coach Calls, Get to Work

Every World Cup year, a familiar office joke circulates in Brazil. When employees ask whether they still need to work while the Brazilian national soccer team is playing, employers reply that unless they were selected by the coach, they should report to work as usual.

This may be humorous, but the question is a legitimate and recurring one. When a World Cup match takes place during business hours, are employees legally entitled to leave to watch the game?

The answer is no. Brazilian labor laws do not grant employees a right to time off for World Cup matches. Game days are not public holidays, and there’s no special category of leave for sporting events. Rather, it’s subject to the employer’s discretion.

That said, soccer occupies a unique place in Brazilian culture, and many companies recognize that reality. Depending on operational needs and internal policies, employers often choose to adopt flexible arrangements, such as reduced working hours, early dismissal, or even gathering personnel to watch the match together at the office.

These accommodations, however, are voluntary. If they allow for time off, employers often require employees to make up missed hours through a “bank of hours” system or other schedule adjustments.

If a company decides to maintain its regular schedule, employees who fail to report to work to watch a World Cup match may face salary deductions and disciplinary measures. The best approach for both sides is clear communication in advance, allowing businesses to maintain productivity while respecting one of Brazil’s most cherished traditions.