Originally founded in 1895 as Thames Ironworks FC, the club was formed by workers from the Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company. It wasn’t until 1900 that the club became West Ham United, moving away from its industrial roots but keeping the “Hammers” nickname that still resonates with fans today.

The club has long been associated with working-class pride, embodying a never-say-die spirit. West Ham’s rise through the ranks of English football has seen moments of glory, especially in cup competitions. The 1960s and ‘70s were particularly golden for the Hammers. Under the guidance of Ron Greenwood, West Ham lifted the FA Cup in 1964 and followed it up by winning the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965, a remarkable achievement for the East London outfit. The team from that era, featuring legends like Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst, and Martin Peters, formed the backbone of England's 1966 World Cup-winning side, further cementing the club's legacy.

In the decades that followed, West Ham became known for their flair and commitment to attractive football, even if major trophies eluded them. The Hammers lifted their third FA Cup in 1980, a memorable victory that remains their last major domestic silverware. In 2016, West Ham bid farewell to the iconic Boleyn Ground (Upton Park), a stadium that had been the club’s home for 112 years. This transition sparked mixed emotions among fans, but it also signaled West Ham’s ambition to challenge the Premier League’s elite.

Recent years have seen the Hammers compete in European competitions again, with a standout moment being their UEFA Europa Conference League triumph in 2023 under David Moyes, their first major trophy in over four decades.