Number 10 Downing Street has been kitted out in England flags ahead of the Euro 2024 final as the Three Lions seek to end almost 60 years of hurt.
Thousands of Brits are descending on German capital Berlin for Sunday’s match against Spain, despite soaring travel and accommodation costs and the match already being a sell out.
For the England fans cheering on the team from afar, many are set to enjoy a drink or two at their local with England’s success at the tournament benefitting the restaurant and pub sector by an estimated £800m.
And, if they can pull it off against the thrice champions Spain, Harry Kane and co will be treated to an open top bus tour around London before a reception hosted by the King.
It is a big ‘if’, however, with Spain having scored more goals than Gareth Southgate’s side.
England have never won the Euros and the team’s only major triumph was the World Cup in 1966.
A visit to Downing Street would also be in store for the players - should they win - and the prime minister’s residence has been decked out for the occasion.
In contrast to Labour’s Emily Thornberry once apparently sarcastically tweeting an image of the St George’s cross, the new government has fully embraced the spirit.
Alongside culture secretary Lisa Nandy, Sir Keir Starmer will be in Berlin for the final - having also been at Wembley when England lost on penalties to miss out on Euro 2020 glory.
“I went to the last Euros final, I don’t want to go through that again,” he said. “I don’t want to jinx anything but we must mark it in some way. But the most important thing is getting it over the line on Sunday.”
The prime minister, usually a regular at Arsenal matches, has stopped short of announcing a bank holiday on Monday if England win.
“We should certainly mark the occasion, I don’t want to jinx it,” he added.
David Lammy was seen walking past the flags on his way to No 10 - the foreign secretary no doubt hoping England have better luck than his beloved Spurs have had recently.
Sir Keir watched the semi final win over the Netherlands with his Dutch counterpart Dick Schoof on Wednesday and was seen celebrating the win on penalties.
He said afterwards: “So on we go now, great chance. I’ve always said this team were going to go all the way so I’m really, really pleased and just good luck for Sunday.”
Trade body UKHospitality said it expects the team’s appearance in the final to deliver a 50 per cent increase in sales.
Its chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “The Euros final this Sunday will be a momentous day for the country and our nation’s pubs and bars, which are set to see a sales boost of £120 million.
“Pubs will be packed to the rafters with fans cheering on the Three Lions and creating an unrivalled atmosphere, outside of being at the game in Berlin.
“With licensing hours already extended until 1am this Sunday, I hope fans will be able to take advantage to celebrate a historic victory for England.”
