Major bank holiday update as Labour confirms 'day of celebration'

The Government has broken its silence on whether there will be an extra Bank Holiday after the Lionesses won the Euro 2025 final in Basel, Switzerland, last night. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told Times Radio this morning that there would be a "day of celebration" after Chloe Kelly's penalty clinched a historic victory. However, fans will be disappointed to hear that although there would be a victory parade, an extra Bank Holiday was not in the cards.

Mr Reynolds said: "There should be a day of celebration. That's what the Prime Minister promised. That's not a Bank Holiday, but there is a Downing Street reception today. There'll be the Victory Parade tomorrow." He continued: "I'm afraid I can't announce a Bank Holiday, but there should be a celebration to mark this brilliant achievement." The England team will attend a Downing Street reception today hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and the Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock.

It comes after Keir Starmer previouslt voiced support for an extra Bank Holiday if England beat Spain in the World Cup final two years ago.

Writing on X at the time, he said: "It's almost 60 years since England won the World Cup.

"I'm never complacent about anything... but there should be a celebratory bank holiday if the Lionesses bring it home."

The Prime Minister posted yesterday: "The Lionesses have once again captured the hearts of the nation.

"Their victory is not only a remarkable sporting achievement, but an inspiration for young people across the country.

"It stands as a testament to the determination, resilience and unity that define this outstanding team."

The FA has confirmed that there will be an open-top bus parade along the Mall in London before an event at the Queen Victoria Memorial.

Fans will be able to attend for free, and the celebration will be broadcast live on BBC, ITV, and Sky.

Around 16million Brits watched the game from home, while Keir Starmer and the Prince of Wales looked on from the stands.

England edged past Spain on penalties, with the winner scored by Chloe Kelly.

She also assisted the Lionesses' equaliser. The star said after the game: "I am so proud of this team. So grateful to wear this badge. So proud to be English. I was cool, I was composed."