West Ham's Century-Old Bubble Tradition Celebrated by Manor Solomon in Home Debut
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Manor Solomon experienced West Ham United's century-old bubble-blowing tradition during his first home game in London, linked to the club's anthem "I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles." This ritual, rooted in local school football culture and popularized by fans since the 1920s, remains a unique part of West Ham's matchday experience.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Manor Solomon experienced West Ham's bubble tradition in his first home game on August 22, 2026.
- The bubble ritual is tied to the club anthem "I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles," written circa 1919.
- West Ham fans began singing the song about 100 years ago, linking it to the club.
- Cornelius Bill, a local headmaster, adapted the song to honor standout players.
- Over 24,000 fans set a world record blowing bubbles in 1999.
- The bubble tradition remains a unique and celebrated part of West Ham's culture.
On August 22, 2026, Israeli footballer Manor Solomon experienced West Ham United's unique century-old tradition during his first home game with the London club against Charlton. As players exited the dressing rooms onto the pitch, they passed through clouds of soap bubbles, a ritual deeply tied to the club's identity. This custom originates from the club's anthem, "I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles," written around 1919 by Jan Kenbrovin and John William Kellette in the United States and popular in the 1920s.
West Ham fans began singing the song about 100 years ago, linking it to the club through Cornelius Bill, headmaster of Park School near West Ham's former stadium, Upton Park. Bill, a football enthusiast and close friend of West Ham coach Charlie Paynter, adapted the song to include players' names, which Park School supporters sang during matches. Over time, the song became West Ham's anthem, and blowing bubbles became an integral part of matchday experience.
A notable moment in this tradition occurred on May 16, 1999, when over 24,000 fans blew bubbles for a full minute to set a world record. This ritual remains a distinctive and celebrated aspect of West Ham's culture, now witnessed firsthand by Solomon in his debut home appearance.
Mentioned
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Coverage from N12
