Heartbroken heroines return home: Lionesses sign autographs at airport as they begin long journey back from Australia after gutting World Cup final defeat – as calls grow to give squad honours and homecoming parade

The heartbroken lionesses waved to fans and signed autographs as they left Australia and began their long journey home from the Women’s World Cup final defeat.

Head coach Sarina Wiegman led the team out of their Sydney hotel after their loss to Spain. Most team members continued to smile as they greeted fans, but some looked dejected as they prepared to board the plane back to the UK.

Fans are calling to honor the Lionesses and hold a homecoming parade after they finish second.

Labor leader Sir Keir Starmer was the first to call for tributes, saying they had ‘stirred the whole nation by their historic achievement’.

Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, also said that ‘everyone on the team’ deserved credit.

And the sentiment was echoed by fans, who said, “There must still be a homecoming parade or celebration for the Lionesses.” They need to know the effect and pride they inspired during the tournament @Lionesses we need to get this in place.”

Another said, ‘Proud of you all @Lionesses! You have inspired us with your team spirit, determination and achievements! The final was a step too far this time. Fantastic performance! Next step a very well deserved bus parade in London and a visit to Downing St/Buckingham Palace.’

Celebrities, royals and politicians have said the lionesses have “inspired millions” and “paved the way for generations to come.”

Olga Carmona’s goal in the first half was enough to shake off Sarina Wiegman’s team with fans anguished as England were unable to break through in Sydney on Sunday.

But despite the 1-0 defeat, fans were quick to congratulate the team for the ‘fantastic’ job they had done for the women’s game.

The Prince of Wales tweeted a personal message to the Lionesses after the game, saying their ‘spirit and drive have inspired so many people’.

William, who attended the final in Sandringham, Norfolk, along with the Princess of Wales and Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, said: ‘While this is the outcome none of us wanted, @Lionesses you have done yourself and this country proud made.

“Your spirit and drive have inspired so many people and paved the way for future generations.

Thanks for the football memories. Congratulations to Spain.’

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak posted on Twitter, now known as X, that everyone was “incredibly proud” of the team despite the loss.

He said, “You left absolutely nothing behind, Lionesses.

“It wasn’t meant to be, but you’ve already secured your legacy as game changers.

“We are all incredibly proud of you.”

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who attended the competition in Sydney on behalf of the government, also expressed how proud she was of the team, saying: ‘They have inspired millions across the country with glorious performances, moments of magic and relentless determination and desire.

“An incredible journey has come to an end, but it will never be forgotten.”

Manchester United and England defender Maya Le Tissier said she was “dismayed” by the defeat but “proud” of the Lionesses who are “an inspiration to everyone”.

Speaking at a screening of the game at London’s Olympic Park, she told PA news agency: “Of course we were gutted, we were so close, but unfortunately it didn’t go the way we wanted, but I think we can be very proud of the players.

“They will be an inspiration to everyone, all the girls and boys who want to play for England now.

“They are a huge inspiration to everyone and I think you can see the impact it has had on both Australia and a nation.

“So yes, they can be very happy with themselves.”