Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has put his political troubles on hold to celebrate his football team's Premier League victory. Arsenal were crowned English champions for the first time since 2004 on Tuesday night after Manchester City drew with Bournemouth, making it mathematically impossible for them to catch the Gunners.
Celebrations at the Emirates
Thousands lined the streets outside the club's Emirates Stadium in north London at the full-time whistle to celebrate, while footage was shared of Arsenal players jumping for joy at their own watch party.
Starmer, who is facing huge pressure to resign from his role, stopped short of attending any sort of celebration, but did congratulate his side on social media. He wrote on X: '22 long years for the Arsenal. But finally, we’re back where we belong. Champions!'
Starmer is expected to step down from his position at some point, but it is understood he wants to do it on his own terms rather than being forced out by his own party.
Political Context
The Prime Minister's celebration comes after Labour suffered damaging defeats in recent by-elections, which were followed by close ally Wes Streeting resigning from his role as health secretary. When not leading the country, however, Starmer is an avid Arsenal fan and has been seen at the Emirates on numerous occasions.
Some, though, did not take his social media post well. One angry follower replied: 'We? You weren't on the pitch. You didn't do anything. Just get back to writing that resignation speech, champ.' Another wrote: 'We've all decided you can't support Arsenal anymore.'
Arsenal's Triumph
Arsenal will pick up the Premier League trophy after Sunday's final game away at Crystal Palace, with tickets now like gold dust for their most loyal fans. Manager Mikel Arteta and his team have endured mockery over their 'second again' position as the Premier League's bridesmaids, but that will now end with their first major trophy since the FA Cup won in his first season in charge in 2020.
Their last team to win the Premier League saw Thierry Henry and Co go unbeaten through the entire 38-game season. Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and even Leicester City have held the title since.
