Euro's triumphant lionesses reveling in nocturnal jubilation across London, preparing for forthcoming Mall display
The England Women's Football Team, affectionately known as the Lionesses, were celebrated in grand style this week following their historic Euro 2025 victory. The homecoming event, a mix of tradition and modern excitement, began on Monday afternoon when the team landed at Southend Airport in Essex.
The celebrations continued with a high-profile reception at Buckingham Palace, preceded by a victory parade through London. On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, the team took two open-top buses along The Mall, leading to a ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace. Thousands of fans gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion, waving flags and cheering for their heroes.
The ceremony featured military bands, big screens showing Euro 2025 highlights, and a trophy-lifting presentation by captain Leah Williamson and coach Sarina Wiegman. The event, which was free to attend and broadcast live on BBC, ITV, and Sky, was hosted by Alex Scott and included performances by the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force.
Prior to the parade, the team had been received at Downing Street by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer was away in Scotland. The reception at Downing Street included champagne and canapés, though many players preferred Pimm’s.
The Dutchwoman, Sarina Wiegman, addressed Sir Keir, expressing her pleasure at the meeting and advocating for more investment in women's football. She also highlighted a letter sent by the team to the Government asking for attention and access to football for all girls.
The victory was achieved through a penalty shootout against Spain in the final. The team's success has been widely celebrated, with Rachel Reyner, a team member, describing them as "absolute legends" in a social media post. Even the King and the Prince of Wales congratulated the team in statements.
Plans for a potential reception for the team at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle are being explored by royal aides. The Football Association (FA) is proud of the team's achievement and looks forward to celebrating with fans. The Government announced plans to more than double priority access to grassroots football pitches for girls and women over the next five years.
Hundreds of fans waited to catch a glimpse of the team and the trophy upon their arrival, making the celebration an enthusiastic and historic day for women’s football in England. The Lionesses have truly made history and inspired a nation.
The Lionesses' Euro 2025 triumph isn't limited to European leagues, as their success has echoed in England's sports community, with both the King and Prince of Wales extending congratulations. Fans eagerly anticipate a potential reception for the team at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.
The FA is keen to celebrate this achievement further, while the Government has announced plans to prioritize access to grassroots football pitches for girls and women, mirroring the Lionesses' advocacy for female football.
