The UK plans a nationwide holiday if they wins the Euro 2024

The UK government is considering the possibility of declaring a nationwide holiday if the national team wins the Euro 2024 championship for the first time in the country’s history.

As the England team heads into the Euro 2024 final against Spain in Berlin on July 14, the nation is looking forward to potentially winning the European championship for the first time. This victory would not only bring national pride but also the hope of a special holiday to celebrate this historic win.

Gareth Southgate’s squad excelled by defeating the Netherlands in the semi-final with a score of 2-1, thanks to Ollie Watkins’ decisive goal in the 90th minute. This victory has brought the Three Lions closer to the dream of becoming European champions, a feat they have never achieved before.

Given this situation, the question of whether the government will declare a nationwide holiday if England wins is on many people’s minds. Although there has been no official statement, precedents from Euro 2020 can be referenced to predict this possibility.

During Euro 2020, when England reached the final, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson considered declaring a holiday if the national team won. When asked about this issue, Johnson responded cautiously: “I think that’s tempting fate; let’s see what happens.”

His spokesperson also said that they would outline plans at the appropriate time if England won. However, the team lost to Italy in the final penalty shootout.

Besides, sources at that time also pointed out that the timing of the match might be too short to declare an emergency holiday on the following Monday. Instead, they encouraged businesses to consider giving employees a day off to celebrate if possible.

Currently, with Keir Starmer as Prime Minister, the possibility of declaring a holiday is still considered quite high since Starmer is also a passionate football fan who previously called for Johnson to declare a holiday in 2021 if England beat Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

He told the Mirror in 2021: “The whole country is incredibly proud of what Gareth Southgate and our heroic England team have achieved. History has been made. If we wins the Euro 2024, the country should have the chance to celebrate properly with an extra Bank Holiday, granted in the name of the England team.”

However, the final decision will depend on many factors, including economic, social impacts, and preparation time. The UK government is expected to carefully consider the people’s desires and practical factors.

Regardless of the final match’s outcome, reaching the Euro 2024 final is already a proud achievement for England. It not only reflects the development of English football but also brings joy and unity to the nation during challenging times.

Whether a holiday is declared or not, the people of England will undoubtedly have a memorable night as they cheer for the national team in this historic match.