80 years on: The day the football restarted after WW II

The Story So Far

West Ham United’s history is inextricably linked to the broader landscape of English football, including the moment professional play resumed after World War Two. Eight decades have passed since that historic restart, an anniversary marked by the release of a new book on the subject. The publication examines the restoration of the football calendar following years of disruption, detailing how teams and supporters transitioned from wartime fixtures back to official league competition. This period remains a chapter in the sport's recovery. The milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the game’s role within the community during that transformative post-war era.