London: Englands triumphant squad had misgivings about how popular their Euro 2025 parade would be, but they need not have worried as 65,000 fans joined their celebrations in London – as well as members of the Royal Family. The Lionesses held an open-top bus parade along The Mall after becoming back-to-back European champions with a dramatic win over Spain on Sunday.
According to BBC, fans lined the route before gathering around a stage in front of the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace, where some of the players were interviewed by former Lioness Alex Scott. Chloe Kelly, who scored Englands winning goal at 2022 and the decisive penalty in Sundays shootout, expressed her excitement and the immense support the team felt both at home and during the Euros in Switzerland.
Princess Beatrice of York attended the parade, and there was a surprise for England coach Sarina Wiegman as her favorite singer Burna Boy joined the squad on stage. The Dutch coach sang and danced along as Burna Boy performed his hit “For My Hand,” much to the delight of the crowd and the players.
The Football Association (FA) reported that at least 65,000 people attended the parade. Washington Spirit defender Esme Morgan shared her surprise and joy at the turnout, reflecting on initial concerns that not enough fans would attend. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham also commented on the players’ initial doubts about the parade turnout, highlighting the British public’s strong support and pride in the team.
The England squad returned to Southend airport on Monday before attending a reception at Downing Street. Their celebrations continued with Heather Small performing “Proud,” a tournament anthem for the Lionesses, who played it in their dressing room during the Euros.
Chelsea defender Niamh Charles shared her personal connection to the event, recalling her childhood visits to Buckingham Palace and expressing her amazement at the current reality of women’s football in England. The Lionesses now aim to achieve even greater success at the 2027 World Cup, following their loss to Spain in the 2023 final.