The Euro 2020 Trophy has made a surprise appearance in Woolwich after London rolled out the red carpet ahead of hosting the world's biggest sporting event since the start of the pandemic.
The symbolic final countdown to the tournament is underway after the tournament's extravagant trophy arrived in the capital from Glasgow.
Councillors Adel Khaireh and mayor Denise Hyland visited Woolwich as it hosted the shiny trophy which will see 24 national football teams compete from June 11 to July 11.
The event in General Gordon Square in Woolwich is part of a 'Holiday Fun Fridays' programme of events taking place on six school holidays this year.
General Gordon Square in Woolwich
The square was 'animated' with market stalls, free activities for children and for this event, the theme was all about sport ahead of Euro 2020 starting next week, and the added bonus this week as the presence of the esteemed trophy.
The delayed UEFA Euro 2020 football championship will start in Rome next Friday, but London's Wembley Stadium will host a number of key matches, including two semi-finals and the decider on July 11.
The cup - known as the Henri Delaunay trophy - was handed over at a ceremony at Kings Cross attended by Mayor Sadiq Khan for the last leg of its tour of host cities across Europe.
Sadiq Khan with the Euro 2020 trophy in London
The trophy was then taken to Woolwich for one of multiple community events before heading to Wembley where eight games will be hosted.
The eyes of Europe and the world will be on our city over the next five weeks as we play host to eight games in #EURO2020, including the final at Wembley.
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) June 4, 2021
We’ve been through so much over the last 16 months but London is coming back stronger than ever. pic.twitter.com/hulaalDrEy
Wembley will host England's group games, the semi-finals and the final and a round-of-16 tie that could have England playing Germany.
So the championship, still called Euro 2020, will have people in the stands, with Wembley aiming for 50% attendance.
The month long tournament is expected to provide a much needed boost to London’s battered economy with thousands of pubs and bars due to show matches.
Former football commentator John Motson has also recorded tannoy announcements that will be played at five major Tube stations from June 11.
Mr Khan, said: “As a huge football fan, I can’t wait for UEFA Euro 2020 to begin and the arrival of the trophy in our city is an exciting reminder that there’s only one week to go until the tournament kicks off.
“After such a challenging past year, I’m delighted that London will soon play a key part in the competition, with eight matches hosted at Wembley – more than any other city. I have no doubt that the tournament will act as a catalyst for the capital’s recovery and bring Londoners together to cheer on England.”
Speaking about Holiday Fun Fridays, Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Equalities, said: “The summer is finally approaching and our festival and events season is kicking off with this great event for families.
"It’s time to have some fun so come down to Woolwich, entertain the kids for free, grab some great goodies and food and enjoy being together again.”
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