As England prepares for their second consecutive final under the leadership of Gareth Southgate, fans are buzzing with anticipation, not just for the match, but also for the possibility of a Bank Holiday to celebrate a potential victory.
The excitement was amplified following Ollie Watkins’ dramatic late winner in the semi-final against the Netherlands on Wednesday night.
The semi-final clash saw the Dutch take an early lead with a superb strike from Xavi Simons. However, England levelled the score after Harry Kane converted a controversial penalty.
Just as the match seemed destined for extra time for the third consecutive game, Watkins capitalized on a pass from substitute Cole Palmer, executing a stunning turn and finish that sent England supporters into a frenzy.
With the thrilling victory, England secured their place in Sunday’s final against Spain in Berlin. Amidst the celebrations, there has been a growing call for a Bank Holiday on the following Monday to commemorate the team’s achievement.
This hope is bolstered by past comments from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who, before taking office, advocated for a “proper day of celebration” in the event of an England victory in major tournaments.
Starmer had previously called for a Bank Holiday following the Euro 2020 final at Wembley and again after the Lionesses’ triumphant victory against Germany in the Women’s Euro 2022 final.
In 2021, speaking to The Mirror, Starmer expressed the nation’s pride in the England team and suggested that a win deserved national recognition through an extra day off.
“The whole country is incredibly proud of what Gareth Southgate and our England heroes have achieved already,” he said. “History has been made. If we win on Sunday, the country should get the chance to celebrate it properly with an extra Bank Holiday, granted in the name of the England team.”
Now, as Prime Minister, Starmer has the opportunity to fulfill his previous commitment and grant the country a day of celebration should England triumph in the final.
The prospect of a Bank Holiday has added to the already electric atmosphere surrounding the tournament, with fans eagerly awaiting both the match and the potential for a national day off.
