New Prime Minister Andy Burnham, a lifelong Evertonian, has been honoured by his beloved football club as he took office on 20 July 2026. Everton FC posted a series of images on social media showing Mr Burnham's long association with the club, with the caption: 'A Toffee at No.10. Congratulations to Andy Burnham on becoming the UK’s Prime Minister. A lifelong Evertonian, long-time Hillsborough Law campaigner, regular Fans Supporting Foodbanks donor and Everton in the Community fundraiser. Wishing you nothing but the best in your new role.'
Everton Presence at Downing Street
As Mr Burnham delivered his inaugural speech, former Everton midfielder Peter Reid was among the guests on the steps of Downing Street. The former Mayor of Greater Manchester has said he hopes to keep his season ticket at Hill Dickinson Stadium as he swaps Wigan for Westminster. He becomes the second Everton fan to lead a government in a Commonwealth nation, following Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, also an Evertonian, elected last year.
Political Transition and Background
The Merseyside-born politician visited King Charles after Sir Keir Starmer formally resigned and accepted an invitation to form a new government. After his trip to Buckingham Palace, Mr Burnham, who spent his first year in Old Roan, Aintree, before growing up in Culcheth near Warrington, returned to Downing Street to a rapturous reception. He takes over from Sir Keir, an Arsenal fan, and becomes the first Downing Street occupant born in the Liverpool City Region for more than a century. He told crowds he will bring forward a 'New 10-year-plan for Britain' later this year.
Everton Advocacy and Controversies
Mr Burnham caught global media attention when pictured in a retro Everton shirt after indicating he would stand in the Makerfield by-election last month. He was also seen at Hill Dickinson Stadium for Rugby League’s Magic Weekend, pledging to do more for the sport from the 'highest office.' During Everton’s financial difficulties and points deductions, Mr Burnham was one of the most ardent critics, saying it proved the Premier League 'couldn't regulate football properly.' He has also been a strong critic of video assistant referees, saying he would scrap the system altogether.
