Fresh from lifting the FIFA Club World Cup trophy with Chelsea, England international Cole Palmer has taken a break from football to make an emotional first visit to St Kitts, the island where his grandfather, Sterry Palmer, was born.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who grew up in Wythenshawe, Manchester, touched down on the tiny Caribbean island on Monday, July 14, 2025, to a hero’s welcome.
Greeted at the airport by Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley and Tourism Minister Marsha T. Henderson, Palmer and his family were treated to a colourful display by traditional Masquerade performers, marking the start of a heartfelt homecoming few Kittitians will forget.
His arrival was the culmination of a dream for Palmer, whose deep connection to his St Kitts and Nevis heritage has always been close to his heart.
The Chelsea star’s football boots famously feature both the St Kitts and Nevis flag and the England flag, a tribute to his roots that has inspired many on the island.
Speaking shortly after landing, Palmer described how special the visit felt after his Club World Cup triumph in New York. “Landing in St Kitts off the back of winning the Club World Cup felt really special. It’s where my grandad’s love for football started. The island’s beautiful and really chilled. I can’t wait to explore the mountains, rainforest and sea and to try out the food,” he said.
On Tuesday, July 15, 2025, Palmer was warmly welcomed by St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, who presented him with a national team jersey and a piece of indigenous Caribbean art.
The Prime Minister praised Palmer’s journey from Manchester’s streets to the global football stage and reminded him that his visit was more than symbolic.
“Cole Palmer’s visit to St Kitts and Nevis is a powerful reminder of the strength and pride of our diaspora. His presence and mentorship will inspire the next generation to believe that global success is possible, no matter where you come from,” Dr Drew said.
Back on the island, the people of St Kitts have embraced Palmer as one of their own. His trademark “cold” goal celebration has already become a favourite among local schoolchildren, who copy the move on dusty fields and beaches alike.
Watch video of his arrival below:
Cole Palmer returns to his root, Saint Kitts and Nevispic.twitter.com/HqLvBYZ0FB
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) July 15, 2025
FKA/MA
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