Lionesses' Historic Euro 2025 Victory: A Triumph Without a Bank Holiday
England's Lionesses made history by retaining their Euro 2025 title against Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout, though no bank holiday will mark the occasion.

England's Lionesses have once again etched their names in the annals of football history by retaining their Euro 2025 title in a nail-biting penalty shootout against World Champions Spain. The match, held in Basel, saw both teams locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes and extra time, leading to a dramatic conclusion where England emerged victorious.
Key Moments of the Match
- Penalty Shootout: The decisive moments came during the penalty shootout, with Alex Greenwood, Niamh Charles, and Chloe Kelly converting their spot kicks. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton made two crucial saves, ensuring England's triumph.
- Prime Minister's Praise: Prime Minister Sir Keir hailed the team as "history makers," praising their resilience and making the nation proud.
Economic Considerations
Despite the historic win, Downing Street has confirmed there will be no bank holiday to celebrate the occasion. This decision aligns with previous instances, such as when England's men's team won the World Cup in 1966 and the Lionesses' Euro 2022 victory. The economic cost of an additional bank holiday, estimated at £1.36bn by government modelling, played a significant role in this decision.
Public and Political Reactions
- Sir Keir's Stance: Sir Keir has previously advocated for a bank holiday to celebrate such victories, emphasizing the importance of marking these moments with a proper day of celebration.
- Public Celebration: A homecoming parade is scheduled in central London, featuring an open-top bus tour culminating in a ceremony outside Buckingham Palace.
Looking Ahead
As the Lionesses bask in their well-deserved glory, the focus now shifts to their future endeavors. The team's performance has not only brought joy to the nation but also solidified their status as one of the premier teams in women's football.
Relive the penalty shootout from England's Euro 2025 win and join the nation in celebrating this monumental achievement.