Keir Starmer’s stance on UK getting bank holiday after England's Euro 2025 win confirmed
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has made his stance clear on whether the United Kingdom will get an extra bank holiday after England won the Women's Euro 2025 final.
The Lionesses defeated Spain 3-1 on penalties in Basel, with Chloe Kelly scoring the winning spot kick.
The two teams were locked together at 1-1 after extra time, with Alessia Russo's second-half header cancelling out Mariona Caldentey's opener for Spain.
Sarina Wiegman and her side have now retained the Euros title that they won in 2022.
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On that occasion, an extra UK bank holiday was not granted by the then Conservative government.
Labour PM Starmer previously hinted - days after winning the General Election - that a bank holiday would be created if England won the men's Euro 2024 final against Spain, but they lost.
He also called for a day off if the Lionesses defeated Spain in the 2023 Women's World Cup final - a result they were also on the wrong side of.
This time around, Liberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey has been the one calling for a bank holiday following the Lionesses' success in Switzerland.
He wrote on Twitter: "Back-to-back champions! The Lionesses have done it again and made us all proud.
"How about it, Keir Starmer? Time for that bank holiday?"
But what is the government's stance?
Will the UK receive an extra bank holiday?
As it stands, the answer to that question is no.
Starmer's spokesperson told BBC Sport prior to the final that there were 'no plans' for a bank holiday if the Lionesses won the Euros.
That stance perhaps isn't a major surprise given that there was no bank holiday after the last time England tasted Euros success, but it is a departure from Starmer's 2023 comments.
There are, however, other plans in place for the Lionesses once they return to London.
An open-top bus parade will be held along The Mall on Tuesday, with a stage ceremony and presentation then taking place.
And, as is tradition for major title-winning sports teams, players and coaching staff will attend a special function at Downing Street on Monday.
In a press release posted on the GOV.UK website, Starmer stated: "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.
"I'm delighted that the squad will be welcomed into Downing Street as the whole country marks this historic win and the lasting impact they are creating for the future of the game."
Topics: England, Womens Football, Football
Ryan Smart