Central London will burst into celebration as England’s Lionesses, the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 champions, parade through the capital to mark their historic back-to-back European Championship victory. The open-top bus procession, a vibrant display of national pride, drew thousands of fans to The Mall, culminating in a dazzling ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace. The event was a fitting tribute to a team that has not only defended their title but also transformed women’s football in England.
A Historic Victory
The Lionesses secured their second consecutive Euros crown on Sunday, July 27, 2025, in a thrilling penalty shootout against Spain in Basel, Switzerland. The final, which ended 1-1 after extra time, saw England trailing after Mariona Caldentey’s first-half header. Alessia Russo’s equalizer in the 57th minute, assisted by Chloe Kelly’s pinpoint cross, kept England in the fight. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton emerged as the hero, saving two penalties, while Chloe Kelly sealed the 3-1 shootout victory with the decisive spot-kick, echoing her iconic winning goal in 2022. This triumph marked the first time an England senior team has won a major tournament overseas, cementing the Lionesses’ place in football history.
The Parade: A Celebration of Joy and Unity
The victory parade began at 12:10 pm BST at the Trafalgar Square end of The Mall. Fans, some traveling from as far as Gloucester, Norwich, and Exeter, lined the route, waving flags and homemade signs while chanting “Sweet Caroline” and “Football’s Coming Home.” The open-top bus, adorned with England’s colors, carried stars like captain Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, and manager Sarina Wiegman, who waved to the jubilant crowds. The atmosphere was electric, with supporters of all ages celebrating the team’s grit and determination.
At around 12:30 pm, the procession reached the Queen Victoria Memorial, where a staged ceremony hosted by former Lioness Alex Scott unfolded. Performances by the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force added a patriotic flourish. Big screens showcased tournament highlights, including Russo’s crucial goal and Hampton’s penalty saves. The ceremony concluded with Wiegman and the team lifting the trophy, sparking roars from the crowd. The free event was broadcast live on BBC, ITV, and Sky, with additional coverage on England’s social media channels, ensuring fans across the UK could join in.
A Whirlwind of Celebrations
The parade capped a whirlwind 48 hours for the Lionesses, who returned to the UK on Monday, July 28, to a hero’s welcome at London Southend Airport. Hundreds of supporters greeted the team, though a delayed flight prevented individual fan interactions. That evening, the squad attended a reception at 10 Downing Street hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock. Wiegman described the event as “very, very special,” noting the patriotic decorations and warm hospitality. The team then celebrated in Soho’s Little Italy, where players like Williamson, Russo, Beth Mead, and Chloe Kelly partied with friends and family, swapping formal attire for casual outfits.
National Pride and Lasting Impact
The Lionesses’ victory and parade underscored the growing influence of women’s football in the UK. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the team for “doing our country proud” and inspiring a new generation. At Bearsted Football Club in Maidstone, Kent, where Alessia Russo began her career, a mural was unveiled in her honor, reflecting the team’s role in transforming grassroots football. Fans along The Mall echoed this sentiment, with many noting that their daughters now dream of playing football, a testament to the Lionesses’ cultural impact.
Notable figures, including King Charles III, Prince William, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, offered congratulations. The King expressed the Royal Family’s “warmest appreciation and admiration,” hinting at a potential autumn reception at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle. However, Downing Street dismissed calls for a bank holiday, citing economic costs estimated at £2.4 billion, with a spokesperson noting, “If we had a bank holiday every time the Lionesses win, we’d never go to work.” Royal Mail announced a special postmark reading, “It’s Home. Again. Champions of Europe 2025,” to mark the occasion.
A Legacy of Inspiration
The Lionesses’ Euro 2025 campaign was marked by dramatic comebacks, including a penalty shootout win over Sweden in the quarter-finals and an extra-time victory against Italy in the semi-finals. Their resilience, led by Wiegman’s tactical brilliance, has solidified their status as role models. The team’s impact extends beyond the pitch, though continued investment in grassroots programs is needed to sustain this momentum.
As the crowds dispersed and the confetti settled, the Lionesses’ parade left an indelible mark on London. The event celebrated not just a trophy, but a movement—one that continues to break barriers and inspire millions. With the 2027 Women’s World Cup on the horizon, the Lionesses are poised for further glory, and their fans will be there every step of the way.
