Legacy of recent England successes to be felt in clubs and schools across the country

Government to commit to supporting grassroots facilities that nurture our future football stars, and recognising the people who make that happen.

• Girls and boys across the country to get more access to football to ensure legacy of UEFA EURO 2024 performance
• Review of curriculum to protect time for PE and legislation to be brought forward to limit the number of kit items schools can require

The Government has set out plans to support the next generation of footballers in honour of the Three Lions’ achievement of reaching the UEFA EURO 2024 final against Spain last night. 

This follows the recent high profile achievements of the Lionesses who took home the UEFA EURO 2022 trophy, and reached the final in last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

To mark the achievements of our senior men’s and women’s teams, and inspire the next generation as we look ahead to hosting UEFA EURO 2028 across the UK and Ireland, the Government has set out plans to strengthen its support for grassroots football clubs and ensure that all children have access to sports at school.

This will help to ensure talent thrives wherever it is found and support a healthier nation - aligning with the missions to break down barriers to opportunity and build an NHS fit for the future. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

"The Three Lions and the Lionesses have brought the nation so much joy over the last years. The men’s team have excited and gripped us all with their talent and determination in never giving up. 

Playing each week, I know the importance and joy that football and sport more widely brings to so many people. Inspired by the Three Lions, we are breaking down the barriers to opportunity which stops the new generation of footballers from taking to the field and will celebrate those who keep the beautiful game alive in our communities and clubs."

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

"The whole country is incredibly proud of England’s performance at Euro 2024 in reaching the final and we congratulate Spain as winners. The Three Lions have once again been a huge inspiration for our future lions and lionesses.  

We will make sure that the legacy of recent successes are genuinely felt in communities, far and wide across the country. We’re absolutely committed to making sure every child has access to the sports they love both in schools and in grassroots clubs to not just help uncover the next generation of stars but to help create a healthier nation and change lives for the better."

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