Rising from the industrial heart of East London, West Ham United Football Club has become a symbol of resilience, passion, and the beautiful game. Founded in 1895 by workers of the Thames Ironworks, the Hammers have forged a unique identity through decades of triumphs, near misses, and unwavering fan support. Let’s delve into West Ham’s remarkable journey through the lens of numbers and fascinating facts:
Numbers that Define the Hammers:
- 3 FA Cup wins: While Premier League crowns have eluded them, West Ham has thrice lifted the prestigious FA Cup (1964, 1975, 1980). Bobby Moore’s heroics in 1964 remain etched in club folklore.
- 2 European trophy wins: The Hammers earned international acclaim by winning the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965 and finishing runners-up in the same competition in 1976.
- 3 players lifted the World Cup: Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, and Ray Wilson, all West Ham legends, were part of the England team that triumphed in the 1966 World Cup.
- 99-year lease for London Stadium: After leaving their beloved Boleyn Ground in 2016, West Ham secured a unique 99-year lease for the Olympic Stadium, marking a new era for the club.
- 1965 BBC Sports Team of the Year Award: Following their European Cup Winners’ Cup victory, West Ham received the prestigious BBC Sports Team of the Year award, a testament to their collective triumph.
Top 10 Fun Facts about West Ham:
- Thames Ironworks FC to West Ham United: Originally named Thames Ironworks FC, the club changed its name in 1900 to reflect its new district in West Ham.
- Bubbles Galore: West Ham’s anthem, “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles,” is a quirky and beloved tradition sung passionately by fans before every match.
- Boleyn Ground’s Famous Floodlights: The Boleyn Ground’s distinctive floodlights, nicknamed “the pylons,” were erected in 1953 and became a recognizable symbol of the club.
- Three Players Scored Five Goals in a Row: Geoff Hurst, Johnny Byrne, and Brian Dear, all West Ham players, hold the unique record of scoring five consecutive goals in separate matches.
- First FA Cup Final at Wembley: West Ham was one of the losing finalists in the first-ever FA Cup final held at the new Wembley Stadium in 1923.
- More Than Just Football: West Ham has a thriving women’s team, established in 1982, and boasts a strong academy with a legacy of nurturing young talent.
- Claret and Blue Brotherhood: The club’s passionate fan base, nicknamed the “Claret and Blue Army,” is renowned for its vocal support and unwavering dedication.
- Fierce Rivalries: West Ham shares intense rivalries with Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Millwall, adding spice to every encounter.
- “Bubbles” Goes to Space: West Ham’s anthem, “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles,” famously accompanied astronaut David Scott as he played it on the moon in 1971.
- The “West Ham Way”: Attacking football, passion, and a never-say-die attitude are ingrained in West Ham’s identity, earning them the admiration of fans around the world.
West Ham’s story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and unwavering passion. From their humble beginnings to European glory, the Hammers have carved a unique path in football history. As they continue to strive for more silverware, their spirit and legacy remain ever-present, echoing through the stands of the London Stadium with every thunderous “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles.”
West Ham United FC Winning Stats (as of January 05, 2024)
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 1,204 |
| Wins | 442 |
| Goals | 1,559 |
| Goals per Match | 1.29 |
| Penalties Scored | 66 |
| Passes | 279,495 |
| Passes per Match | 232.14 |
| Pass Accuracy % | 77% |
| Clean Sheets | 330 |
| Goals Conceded | 1,688 |
| Goals Conceded per Match | 1.4 |
| Tackles | 12,922 |
| Tackle Success % | 69% |
| Yellow Cards | 1,883 |
| Red Cards | 94 |
Please note that some statistics are not available prior to the 2006/07 season
