On July 8, 2024, the Swiss national football team was welcomed by thousands of fans in Zurich after their impressive run to the quarterfinals of UEFA Euro 2024. The team, led by captain Granit Xhaka, was greeted at the Zurich Airport and later paraded through the city center.
The celebration, organized by the Swiss Football Association, included a stage at the Sechseläutenplatz where players and coaching staff addressed the crowd. Midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri, who scored a memorable goal in the tournament, thanked fans for their support throughout the competition.
Switzerland's campaign ended with a penalty shootout loss to England in the quarterfinals on July 6, 2024, after a 1-1 draw. Despite the defeat, the team's performance was widely praised, including a notable group stage victory over Italy.
The event was broadcast live on Swiss television, with estimates suggesting over 10,000 people attended the celebration in person. The team then returned to their clubs for the upcoming season.