England Women Confirm Euro 2025 Trophy Parade After Dramatic Shoot-Out Victory Over Spain

England Women have successfully defended their European Championship crown, defeating Spain in a dramatic penalty shoot-out to lift the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 trophy.

The reigning world champions struck first when Mariona Caldentey powered home a header in the 25th minute. However, the Lionesses responded valiantly, equalising just before the hour mark as Alessia Russo headed in a precise cross from substitute Chloe Kelly, who had earlier replaced the injured Lauren James.

Chances were limited throughout the remaining 60 minutes of play, including extra time, and the match was ultimately decided by penalties.

Beth Mead stepped up to take England’s first spot-kick and initially converted, but the goal was ruled a double-touch, leading to a re-take that was subsequently saved. Despite that early setback, England’s fortunes quickly turned thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who saved two of Spain’s opening three penalties.

Alex Greenwood and Niamh Charles both converted their penalties, while Leah Williamson missed her attempt. However, Spain’s Salma Paraluello fired off target, allowing Chloe Kelly to step up and calmly slot home the decisive penalty, securing victory for the Lionesses.

Victory Parade Plans Confirmed
Even before the official trophy lift, plans were already in place to honour England’s historic achievement. Gabby Logan revealed on the BBC that a victory parade would take place in central London on Tuesday, 29 July, a date which has since been confirmed by the team.

A statement on the official England website read:

"The 2025 UEFA Women’s EURO winners, England, will celebrate their historic triumph with fans at a homecoming celebration event in central London on Tuesday 29 July.

Fans will have the opportunity to celebrate and show their support for Sarina Wiegman and the Lionesses at an open-top bus procession along The Mall, beginning at 12:10pm and culminating in a staged ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace at approximately 12:30pm.

The homecoming celebration will be broadcast live across BBC, ITV, and Sky between 12 noon and 1pm, with extended news coverage provided throughout the day. Fans can also follow the event across England’s official social media channels.

The ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial will be hosted by Alex Scott, and the event will be free to attend. Spectators will enjoy performances by the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, live music from DJ CharStape, and highlights of the tournament shown on big screens. The celebration will conclude with a special trophy lift by Sarina Wiegman and the Lionesses.

The event is hosted by the Football Association, with support from the UK Government.

Further information, including guidance on timings, safety, and travel, will be shared in due course. As London is expected to be extremely busy, fans are encouraged to plan their journeys carefully, both into central London and for their return home."

Calls for a Bank Holiday
Ahead of the final, The Guardian reported that discussions had already taken place among officials about a potential parade through London, a visit to Downing Street, and even a reception at Buckingham Palace.

While the prospect of a bank holiday has not yet materialised, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is now facing public calls to grant the nation an extra day off to celebrate the Lionesses' achievement.

Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman Max Wilkinson championed the idea, stating:

"The Lionesses can make history on Sunday and retain the Euros title they won so memorably three years ago. If they do that, the Prime Minister should give us a public holiday to honour their achievement. Retaining the title would be one of our country's greatest sporting triumphs."

"Fans and patriots across the country deserve the chance to celebrate the talent, success, and historic accomplishment of this incredible team. A bank holiday would also give a much-needed boost to our hospitality sector."

"The Prime Minister is a football fan – we’ve all seen the pictures of him enjoying a kickabout with his mates. If Wiegman’s heroes bring home the glory, we’ll all be hoping he puts the ball into an open net by giving the Lionesses — and the nation — the chance to mark the moment. A bank holiday would be the perfect way to do that."