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On the afternoon of 31/5, Arsenal's parade convoy departed Emirates Stadium at 2:15 p.m. London time, beginning a journey of approximately 9 km through familiar North London streets. Captain Martin Odegaard was the first to board the bus, raising the 2025-2026 premier league championship trophy.
According to the Metropolitan Police, this was the largest parade ever held in the United Kingdom, with an estimated attendance of over 1.5 million people. This figure far surpassed previous events such as Liverpool's celebration in 2025, which drew 750,000 people, and Man Utd's in 1999, which attracted 500,000 people.
The parade featured four open-top buses. The lead vehicle, dubbed the "Champions truck," had a DJ energizing the atmosphere. Following this were the bus carrying the men's premier league champion team, the coaching staff's bus, the Arsenal women's team bus displaying their FIFA Champions Cup won in February, and a community bus transporting members of Arsenal in the Community and honored club staff. Organizers ensured continuous movement of the buses along the entire route, allowing fans at any point to share a similar experience. Supporters were encouraged to spread out along the route to ensure safety and fully enjoy the festive mood.
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From early morning, hundreds of thousands of fans flocked to the streets of North London to await the convoy. Many carried flags, flares, and banners, creating a festive atmosphere that lasted throughout the journey.
A cafe owner on Holloway Road expressed disbelief at witnessing the parade pass his shop. He mentioned experiencing the championship atmosphere in 2004, but stated this time was "much crazier."
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The atmosphere on the buses was equally vibrant. Despite the lingering disappointment from the Champions League final defeat, many players appeared optimistic. Gabriel Magalhaes and Eberechi Eze, the two players who missed penalties, smiled and celebrated alongside their teammates and fans.
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In his speech to the fans, coach Mikel Arteta said: "This is amazing. You created this moment. Let's enjoy it together. We have come a long way, and this is a reward for everyone."
Captain Martin Odegaard admitted to an incredible feeling witnessing over a million fans lining the streets, singing and waving scarves amidst the red flare smoke covering North London.
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In the Champions League final at Puskas Arena on the evening of 30/5, Arsenal drew PSG 1-1 after 120 minutes before losing 3-4 in the penalty shootout. This result extended the "Gunners'" European woes, as they became the team with the most matches in European Cup/Champions League history (226 matches) without a single title.
Midfielder Declan Rice affirmed that Arsenal would return stronger: "There is no reason to stop here. Next season, we will be stronger and ready to compete for the title again. This is a very promising time for the club."
The English player also emphasized coach Arteta's importance in the team's development journey, adding that the premier league championship was a fitting reward for fans after many years of waiting.
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Myles Lewis-Skelly, a 19-year-old player not yet born when Arsenal last won a title in 2004, admitted he still felt the sting of the Champions League final defeat but emphasized that the entire team had a memorable season. He stated that these collective experiences form the foundation for a new era for the club.
"We are disappointed to have been so close to the Champions League title, but that only makes us stronger. This is the start of a new journey," Lewis-Skelly said.
Hong Duy
*Photos: Reuters, AP, Arsenal FC. Video: Arsenal FC.*
