Thousands of jubilant fans flocked to the streets of east London on Thursday evening, transforming the area into a vibrant sea of claret and blue. The celebratory atmosphere was palpable as West Ham United commemorated their remarkable victory in the Europa Conference League.
Having emerged triumphant with a 2-1 win against Fiorentina in Prague on Wednesday, courtesy of a late goal from Jarrod Bowen, the Hammers embarked on a parade that commenced at the Champions Statue in Barking at 19:00 BST. The procession gradually made its way to Stratford Town Hall, eliciting waves of excitement from the passionate supporters who had eagerly secured prime positions to cheer on their heroes. This historic triumph marked West Ham’s first major European trophy in 58 years.
Abdul, a devoted West Ham supporter of over five decades, encapsulated the prevailing euphoria, exclaiming, “I’ve been buzzing all day. This club is everything to me. I never thought I would see this day, longing for a European trophy for so long.”
Among the fervent crowd were the Newman family—Ben, Nicky, and their sons Tommy, Kai, and Harry—who had embarked on a two-hour journey to partake in the festivities. Reflecting on the victory, Ben expressed his incredulity, stating, “It doesn’t feel real. We’ve waited our entire lives to win something, so this means everything to us.” Nicky added, “I feel so emotional. We sobbed.” Tommy, overwhelmed by the experience, described it as surreal, exclaiming, “I’ve never experienced a final before. It’s amazing!”
Due to the overwhelming turnout of supporters, the two buses transporting the West Ham players encountered delays en route to their destination. Consequently, it was nearly 21:00 when they finally arrived at Stratford Town Hall, where thousands more fans had eagerly awaited their arrival for hours. The players, West Ham staff, and officials danced incessantly throughout the journey, continuing their exuberant celebrations as they ascended a stage in front of the town hall balcony, receiving thunderous applause from the adoring supporters.
Upon reaching the stage, the players proudly lifted the Europa Conference League trophy once again, replicating the scene from Prague just 24 hours earlier. This prompted an explosion of tickertape and blue smoke, adding to the jubilant spectacle. Manager David Moyes, reveling in his first major managerial triumph, joined in the festivities, showcasing his dance moves as he had done in the dressing room following their Wednesday victory.
Addressing the crowd during the trophy parade, Moyes expressed his awe, stating, “Incredible! We received incredible support in Prague, and the reception here in east London is sensational. We had a brilliant night. Let’s savor this moment.”
Captain Declan Rice also took the microphone, though he did not shed light on his future amid speculations of a potential departure. He remarked, “Lifting this trophy for our beloved club hasn’t fully sunk in yet. It’s incredibly special. I am at a loss for words.”
West Ham, having patiently waited for European success, now have their sights set on future achievements. With their victory securing a place in the Europa League for the upcoming season, fans eagerly anticipate further triumphs. The triumph in the Europa Conference League marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s illustrious history.
For the latest West Ham United news, analysis, and fan views, stay connected to our comprehensive coverage. Don’t miss any updates by subscribing to Hammers news notifications and tuning in to the latest episode of The Far Post podcast. At this moment, everything West Ham is within your reach.
6 comments
Wow, dis text captures da electric atmosphere at West Ham’s trophy parade afta their Europa Conference League win. Da fans wer out in force, covered in claret n blue, celebratin like crazy. West Ham finally did it! Can’t believe dey won a major Euro trophy afta 58 long years! #HammerTime
West Ham’s parade was da best ting ever! I bin supporting dem for ova 50 yrs, and it feels amazin to finally see dis day. Dis club means everythin to me. I’m still buzzin from da win! #WestHamFamily
Da Newman fam traveld 2 hrs to be part of dis epic celebration. Waitin 40+ yrs for dis moment was so worth it. Emotions runnin high, tears flowin freely. Dis win is everythin! #Unbelievable
Da players had to wait coz there wer sooo many fans cheerin dem on. Can’t blame dem! Dis parade took ages to get to Stratford Town Hall, but da wait was worth it. Da joy, da dance moves, da tickertape… speechless! #Champions
Moyes, da boss, he knows how to celebrate! Dancin all da way, on da bus, on da stage. He deserves it, man. First major trophy win in his career. Let’s keep dis momentum goin! #MoyesMagic
Rice, da skipper, he spoke from da heart. Can’t believe he lifted dat trophy for our club. Surreal! Da future’s lookin bright for West Ham. Bring on da Europa League! #CaptainMarvel