No bank holiday for Lionesses' Euros victory confirmed

The Government announced no bank holiday will follow the Lionesses' historic win at the Euros.

Government rules out bank holiday for Lionesses' Euros victory celebration

The Government confirmed that there will not be a bank holiday to celebrate the Lionesses' triumph in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022. This decision follows their dramatic victory over Spain, with Chloe Kelly scoring the decisive goal in a tense penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized that while a bank holiday is not in the works, there will be a Downing Street reception and a victory parade. Previous calls from public figures for a celebratory bank holiday had raised hopes among supporters. PM Keir Starmer is among those who had expressed support for such a day.

Rejecting the notion of a bank holiday to celebrate the Lionesses' success reflects broader issues regarding how sports achievements are recognized in the UK. While the Government is holding celebrations, it may face backlash from fans who feel a bank holiday would have been a fitting tribute to a groundbreaking victory. The team's achievement comes at a time when women's sports are gaining increased visibility and support. Ignoring a bank holiday may undermine this momentum and show a lack of recognition for the significance of the win.

Highlights

The Lionesses' victory not only inspires but highlights the importance of ongoing support for women's sports.