England’s head coach, Sarina Wigman, urged for increased investment in women’s soccer during a celebratory event marking the Lionesses’ triumph in Euro 2025. The reception took place on Monday at 10 Darning Street, honoring the team’s remarkable achievement.
The Lionesses defended their European Championship title, clinching victory in a penalty shootout against Spain during the final held in Basel, Switzerland, on Sunday. This victory made them the first England squad to win a major tournament on foreign soil, prompting their return to a reception in central London hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock.
Arriving just before 7 PM, No. 10 was adorned with the St. George flag and decorated with bunting along the railings.
When Wigman addressed the guests in Downing Street Garden, she humorously remarked, “This isn’t quite the same as standing next to the pitch.”
She continued, “This team is extraordinary. We won the Euro, but we also made it to the final. We’re already legends for what we’ve achieved alongside our dedicated supporters.”
Wigman expressed gratitude for the warm reception, highlighting the significance of the decorated garden filled with photographs from their journey. She emphasized the importance of continued investment in grassroots football following the latest government announcement of new measures to enhance access.
“This remarkable team won the Euro, and I immediately reached out, asking for support and accessibility for all girls wanting to play football,” Wigman stated. “Progress is being made, but we still have work to do. We need even more support.”
“We require further investment,” she stressed. “While we’ve made strides in the UK, it’s crucial for us to remain leaders in this domain. Let’s ensure that not just the players, but also the FA, clubs, governments, and fans push for continued innovation.”
In her own remarks, Rayner praised Wigman’s team for their determination, resilience, and skill during the tournament. “You roared, and I know I wasn’t the only one who felt that energy,” she said.
The team’s plane, emblazoned with the word “home,” landed at London Southend Airport after a month-long tournament in Switzerland.
In a social media update, the team shared images of the Euro trophy draped over an English flag in their plane seats. Captain Leah Williamson, holding the trophy, was the first to disembark the plane with Wigman, greeted by throngs of fans upon their arrival.
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An open-top bus parade is planned for central London on Tuesday, featuring a procession along The Mall, concluding with a ceremonial event outside Buckingham Palace.
Defender Jess Carter missed the London festivities as she prepares for an NWSL match with Gotham FC against the Chicago Stars on Saturday.
King Charles III conveyed the royal family’s “heartfelt appreciation and admiration” for the team’s victory, adding, “The next goal is to bring home the World Cup in 2027, if possible.”
Fan Take: This victory is a monumental step for women’s soccer, highlighting the increasing recognition and excitement surrounding the sport. Enhanced investment and support could significantly elevate the profile of women’s soccer, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.
