The West Ham United Foundation officially kicked off its UEFA Women's Euro 2025 celebrations by bringing together participants from across its community programmes for an unforgettable evening at The Foundry, as the Lionesses beat the Netherlands 4-0 in their second group game of the tournament on Wednesday 9 July.
Held in the multi-purpose Inspire space, the Foundation's first ever watch party transformed their learning zone into a buzzing, Euro-themed watch space for more than 20 guests. Attendees ranged from Any Old Irons members and Training Ground participants to aspiring players from the girls’ Player Pathway programme. On hand to host the evening was lifelong Hammers fan and former West Ham women’s team player Kate Longhurst, attending her first event as a Foundation ambassador.
The atmosphere on the night was electric, with fans of all ages and backgrounds united in their support for the Lionesses, who needed a convincing victory to boost their hopes of qualification.
With a 2-0 lead at half-time, Kate hosted a special Euros-themed quiz to add some competitive fun, with two lucky winners taking home the brand new 2025/26 West Ham Home shirt.
Speaking about her new role as a Foundation ambassador, Longhurst said: “First and foremost, being a West Ham fan, the community feel and the family feel, it's something I'm really proud to be part of.
"I think it's nice to give back and also learn about people, where they're coming from and the different areas that the West Ham Foundation is involved with, within the community.
"There are so many different initiatives and particularly with The Foundry, I think that opens a wide range of opportunities for people."
Following the final whistle, which saw the Lionesses secure a statement 4-0 win, guests were treated to an impressive spread from Beyond Food in the E6 Kitchen, The Foundry’s culinary and social enterprise hub. On the menu were football-themed desserts, traditional pie and mash, fish and chips, and a speciality West Ham sausage roll alongside more contemporary offerings like a pulled beef dip sandwich that had many coming back for seconds.
Kiara, a Training Ground participant attending her first watch party, said: “I was really excited to see what the building would look like in the flesh, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. The space is so open and full of natural light, it just feels warm and inviting.”
She added: “It was great to have people from different backgrounds all cheering together, and having Kate here gave us a real insight into the game.”
Long-time Any Old Irons member Mo was left impressed not only by the matchday atmosphere, but by what The Foundry represents for the older fan community. She said: “We’ve been flitting from pub to pub for years. Now we finally have a place to call home.”
Mo added with a smile: “This is a really good environment for us, especially with people in their 90s. You've got a lift, clean facilities, a café, outside seating, and lovely staff who’ve made us welcome."
The evening captured the true spirit of what The Foundry was built for, providing the opportunity for individuals and groups from West Ham’s community to come together.
“The Foundry is all about connecting people,” said Joseph Lyons, CEO of the West Ham United Foundation.
“Seeing our young aspiring footballers sat next to our Any Old Irons, all completely immersed in the game and the community around them is what makes this place so special. It’s a home for our shared values and interests.”
As guests left The Foundry, what resonated most wasn’t just the match or the meal, but the sense of belonging that the evening fostered. From young players taking their next steps in the game, to lifelong supporters who’ve followed West Ham through generations, the watch party was a reflection of the Foundation’s commitment to inclusion, inspiration and community.
More than just a new home, The Foundry is fast becoming a vibrant, dynamic space where people from all walks of life unite and thrive - on and off the pitch.
