“Leeds United Fans Take Over the City in Wild Championship Celebration – You Won’t Believe the Crowd Size
Amid clouds of white, yellow, and blue flare smoke, three open-top buses carried the 2024/2025 Championship winners through the streets on Monday afternoon, cheered on by ecstatic fans waving flags and chanting non-stop.
The parade ended on The Headrow, where I joined the huge crowd soaking up the electric atmosphere.
It felt like a street carnival, with supporters climbing trees, signs, traffic lights, bus stops, and even cranes to salute their heroes.
Fans were in full celebration mode after a remarkable 100-point season, buzzing with excitement about a return to the Premier League.
Tony, a season ticket holder for 34 years, described the mood as “magic,” referencing the Kaiser Chiefs song booming from the speakers: “Mash up the place! Cause a riot.”
He, like many others, was grateful to celebrate in person this time, unlike the 2020 Championship win that happened during the peak of the COVID pandemic.
Among the crowd were three generations of the Simpson family: Grandfather Tony, his sons Tyler and Bee, and his granddaughter Riley.
Tony shared a touching memory: “I was here in ‘91 when we won the First Division with my son on my shoulders — now he’s got his daughter on his. It’s a family tradition.”
Another devoted supporter, John Ward from Seacroft, stood out in a distinctive Leeds United waistcoat. Reflecting on the season’s rocky start, he said, “I went to the first match and I cried — but look at us now.”
Over 150,000 Leeds United fans filled the city centre, creating memories to last a lifetime.
“It’s a passion like no other,” John said. “Once you’re a Leeds fan, it never fades.” He added, “Leeds is a massive club. Wins like this show just how big.”
Many fans praised manager Daniel Farke, now a three-time Championship winner, believing he’s earned the right to lead the club into the Premier League. However, they also acknowledged the challenge ahead, with John commenting, “We need to sign at least five players. Farke’s shown he’s learned a lot this season and improved his in-game decisions.”
Newer fans were part of the celebration too, including Al Woods, who began attending matches in memory of his late father, a lifelong Leeds supporter who passed away 11 months ago.
“I didn’t even know the offside rule back then,” Al said. “Now look at me — it’s been amazing.”
He’s also excited about the proposed expansion of Elland Road to a 55,000-seat stadium, saying it’ll “make it easier to get tickets!”
Ollie and Karen Powell traveled two and a half hours from North Wales. Ollie, a Leeds fan for five decades, said, “It’s been an incredible season.
We missed out on celebrating the last promotion, but this more than makes up for it. The atmosphere is absolutely electric.”
