West Ham United proudly stood in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community at the weekend, coming together once again with our LGBTQ+ Supporters Group, Pride Of Irons, to take part in the iconic Pride in London Parade.
Pride Of Irons members were joined by staff and Club mascot Hammerhead, aboard a specially commissioned West Ham United parade float, marking another memorable year of representation, visibility, and allyship in the heart of the capital.
This year’s float was brought to life by the incredible DJ LIL-E, who kept energy levels high throughout the day, while lifelong Hammer and musician Chesney Hawkes popped along to meet delighted supporters ahead of the parade’s kick-off at Hyde Park Corner. From there, the West Ham float made its way through central London, passing many of the city's most recognisable landmarks before finishing at Whitehall Square.
The annual celebration once again brought together thousands of participants from across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Organisers estimated more than 30,000 people from across 500 organisations took part in the capital's annual Pride Parade, coming together to champion diversity and inclusion.
This weekend’s event came during an important year for Pride Of Irons, who recently marked their ten-year anniversary. Since their formation in 2015, the group has played a vital role in fostering inclusivity and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ supporters at West Ham United, as well as raising awareness and driving positive change across football and beyond.
Pride Of Irons Co-Chairs, Jo Bailey & Patrick Hurley talk about what Pride means to them:
“This year’s Pride in London was dedicated to our late Founding Committee Member, Alastair Holmes, who sadly passed away a few days before Pride. Also, to our Trans siblings who continue to face disproportionate challenges. We also remembered founding member Trevor Wood M.B.E. It was a powerful and proud day.
“We’re deeply grateful for West Ham United’s continued collaboration and thank all Club staff that joined us. Seeing the crowd with crossed hammers arms is always a joyful reminder of what visibility means to so many of us. Our international allies were with us in spirit as we proudly flew the Baltimore Hammers flag and continue working with fan groups at home and away.
“A special shout out to Chesney Hawkes, whose dance moves with Hammerhead and surprise photobombs brought smiles to everyone, even Arsenal and Spurs fans! Allies like Chesney make a real difference, and we thank him for celebrating with us.
“It’s also always a joy to share the work of Pride in Football and Football v Homophobia. There’s still so much to do, yet Saturday was both a celebration of progress and as always, a protest for lasting change.”
West Ham United’s Head of Supporter Services & Fan Engagement, Catherine Smith, added:
“We’re incredibly proud to stand alongside Pride Of Irons at Pride in London - a day that continues to inspire and connect so many across the community.
“This is our eighth year taking part and our fifth year with a specially commissioned West Ham United float. That continued commitment reflects the Club’s deep and ongoing support for our LGBTQ+ fans and allies. A huge thank you goes to Pride Of Irons for their passion, dedication and partnership - it’s through this collaboration that we’re able to make such a positive impact together.”
Throughout the 2024/25 season, West Ham United have continued to demonstrate their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion and visibility.
A standout moment this year was the celebration of Pride Of Irons’ ten-year anniversary, marking a decade of vital work creating safe spaces, tackling discrimination, and building a stronger sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ supporters at the Club. The milestone was recognised across various platforms and Club channels, with Pride of Irons’ achievements celebrated by players, staff, and fellow fan groups alike.
As part of the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign, West Ham United once again highlighted the importance of allyship and inclusion in football. The Club continued its work amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, including support for Pride Of Irons' and raising awareness.
The Club also maintained its focus on year-round inclusion through fan engagement, community initiatives and visible support at home matches, helping to ensure that every supporter feels welcome.
West Ham United’s enduring relationship with Pride of Irons remains a cornerstone of this work - and as the group enters its second decade, the Club remains committed to working hand in hand with our LGBTQ+ fans to drive progress and pride, on and off the pitch.
