The prime minister’s being urged to declare a bank holiday after England successfully defended the Women’s Euros title with a dramatic win over Spain.
Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey has said an additional day off would be a fitting way of honouring a “stunning achievement” by the Lionesses.
But with estimates suggesting an extra bank holiday would cost the economy £2.4bn, it’s understood such a move isn’t being planned by Downing Street.
Rob Harris analysis: England showed resilience and relentlessness
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England fans were left in a state of euphoria after watching Sarina Wiegman’s side become back-to-back champions following a nail-biting match.
Alessia Russo had managed to score an equaliser in the 57th minute, leading to a penalty shootout after neither team managed to pull ahead in extra time.
Chloe Kelly scored the winning spot-kick following two huge saves from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, resulting in a 3-1 win on penalties.
Image: Pic: AP
Although a bank holiday might not be on the cards, there are plans to celebrate the squad’s triumphant homecoming from Switzerland.
An open-top bus parade will be held in London tomorrow lunchtime along The Mall – culminating in a ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace.
Fans can attend for free, and Sky News will broadcast it live.
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What’s next for the Lionesses?
PM: ‘You’ve made the nation proud’
Sir Keir Starmer was among the millions cheering on the Lionesses, and congratulated the team for their second consecutive win at the Euros.
“What a team. What a game. What drama,” he said.
“You dug deep when it mattered most and you’ve made the nation proud. History makers.”
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Prince William and Princess Charlotte, who attended the final at St Jakob-Park in Basel, added: “What a game!
“Lionesses, you are the champions of Europe and we couldn’t be prouder of the whole team. Enjoy this moment England.”
Image: Pic: Reuters
King Charles also shared his “most heartfelt congratulations” on the Royal Family’s official X account.
He wrote: “For more years than I care to remember, England fans have sung that famous chant ‘football’s coming home’.
“As you return home with the trophy you won at Wembley three years ago, it is a source of great pride that, through sporting skill and awesome teamwork, the Lionesses have made those words ring true.
“For this, you have my whole family’s warmest appreciation and admiration. More than that, though, you have shown through your example over past weeks that there are no setbacks so tough that defeat cannot be transformed into victory, even as the final whistle looms.”
The King went on to set a fresh mission for the Lionesses, writing: “The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can!”
Image: Pic: Reuters
Fans, players (and managers!) celebrate
In pubs and living rooms across the country, supporters stood on tables, waved flags and threw their drinks in the air – revelling in the fact that football is staying home.
Tower Bridge was lit up in red and white, and at a presentation ceremony, star striker Michelle Agyemang was named young player of the tournament.
Image: Pic: Reuters
The 19-year-old had just one England cap before the Euros, and scored crucial equalisers as the Lionesses came from behind in the quarter-final and semi-final.
Victory for the Lionesses is also a huge achievement for Sarina Wiegman, who has now led squads to the Euros trophy three times: The Netherlands once, and England twice.
Image: Pic: Reuters
The Dutchwoman admitted that no tournament had been more “chaotic” and “ridiculous” than this one – and revealed her plans to celebrate at a post-match news conference.
“I’ll do some more dancing,” said Wiegman. “And I’ll have a drink, but I don’t think I will drink as much as the players.”
