**Welsh Fans Paint Lucerne Red as Historic Women’s Euro Debut Brings City to Halt**
A vibrant wave of Welsh supporters descended upon Lucerne on Saturday, transforming the picturesque Swiss city into a sea of red in an extraordinary show of solidarity for Wales Women’s football team. Their energy and enthusiasm brought the usually serene streets to a temporary standstill before a pivotal European Championship fixture.
Fans from across Wales travelled to support their national side as Rhian Wilkinson’s team made their highly anticipated first appearance at a major international tournament. The opening match against the Netherlands, held at the 16,000-capacity Allmend Stadion, marked a significant milestone for Welsh football. For many, the occasion was about more than just sport; it was about national pride, progress, and the dawning of a new era for the women’s game in Wales.
The festivities began at the bustling fan zone just outside Lucerne’s main train station. Here, Welsh and Dutch supporters mingled, creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere that set the tone for the day. As kick-off drew nearer, the crowd began a lively 2.5-kilometre march towards the stadium, with both nations’ fans walking side by side, their flags and colours unfurling in the bright summer sun.
Traditional bucket hats, passionate renditions of iconic Welsh anthems, and a powerful sense of unity defined the day. Among the highlights were spontaneous outbreaks of song, with the crowd performing cherished favourites such as the national anthem, “Yma O Hyd,” and “Don’t Take Me Home.” These moments echoed through Lucerne’s historic streets, offering locals and tourists alike a taste of Welsh sporting culture.
The march itself was a spectacle, led by a Dutch team bus pulsing with energetic music. The Welsh contingent followed with a unique musical twist, featuring a more orchestral backing. Amidst the throngs, one young Welsh supporter dazzled the crowd at the front with some impressive keepy-ups, embodying the exuberance and optimism of the day.
Residents of Lucerne watched from balconies, captivated by the vibrant parade streaming beneath them. The mountain backdrop, combined with the radiant weather, only heightened the sense of occasion as the Red Wall of supporters moved closer to the stadium gates.
Earlier in the afternoon, a supporters’ football tournament took place at the fan zone, providing fans with a chance to take to the pitch themselves and forge new connections ahead of the main event. As excitement built, there was a tangible sense of Welsh history being made, with many supporters expressing immense pride in their team’s journey thus far.
Looking ahead, the Welsh team’s schedule includes further group games against France and England next week in St Gallen. Organised fan marches are planned for these matches as well, ensuring the players have a continuous backdrop of vocal encouragement. To facilitate participation, transport from the fan zone to the starting point of the walk will be arranged, with alternative routes offered via local train stations.
The Football Association of Wales encouraged fans to turn out in red—adding further weight to the “Red Wall” moniker inside the stadium. Pre-match activities, such as musical performances from Welsh artists Liss Jones and Aleighcia Scott, helped build momentum the night before, nurturing a sense of community among supporters.
Many present in Lucerne spoke of their delight in witnessing such a historic moment. Zara, a 16-year-old fan from Swansea, summed up the collective sentiment: “It’s sort of unbelievable. I don’t think it will sink in until we are out there in the stadium. You can see how many Welsh fans have travelled out here, it’s crazy. The team really deserve this—they’ve worked so hard for so many years and yeah, I can’t wait!”
As the final whistle approached, whatever the outcome on the pitch, it was clear that the legacy of Welsh women’s football had already been cemented, thanks in no small part to the passion and presence of their travelling supporters. The communal march through Lucerne’s streets was not only a celebration of sport, but also a testament to the enduring spirit of Wales and its commitment to the growth of the women’s game.