Watford fans have plenty to celebrate as 2026 dawns, with the club riding a wave of momentum both on and off the pitch. After a thrilling end to 2025, the Hornets have not only stormed into the Championship play-off places but also reignited belief among supporters that promotion to the Premier League is within reach. The recent string of victories, coupled with a renewed sense of community and purpose, has set the stage for what could be a memorable year at Vicarage Road.
Javi Gracia’s return as head coach has proven to be the catalyst for Watford’s resurgence. Since reclaiming the dugout, Gracia has instilled a fighting spirit and adventurous playing style that has supporters buzzing with excitement. As club chairman Scott Duxbury put it in his New Year address, “Javi has been fantastic since he returned. We knew from his first spell at the club that he just gets what Watford is all about; he understands the culture, the people, and recognises what it means to the fans. There is a connection which has been reflected in the way the team now plays with adventure and attacking intent.”
The results speak for themselves. Watford’s Boxing Day clash with Leicester City encapsulated the team’s newfound resilience. Despite conceding early, the Hornets clawed their way back into the match thanks to Othmane Maamma’s equaliser, a goal that etched his name into the club’s history books. By finding the net in three consecutive away games, Maamma became the first Watford player since Troy Deeney in 2015 to achieve that feat—a testament to both his talent and the club’s commitment to nurturing young players.
With the game hanging in the balance, Leicester’s goalkeeper made a costly error, misjudging a cross that Mattie Pollock headed home to seal a 2-1 victory. It was a win that typified Watford’s never-say-die attitude under Gracia. As Duxbury noted, “There is a fearlessness and vibrancy about this team which is so exciting. We’ve fielded the youngest starting XI in the Championship so far and that youthful energy has been a major reason behind our ability to keep going and win so many points from losing positions.”
The momentum didn’t stop there. In the absence of Mamadou Doumbia—whose Africa Cup of Nations journey with Mali continues—Vivaldo Semedo stepped up with a last-gasp winner against Norwich City, delivering Watford’s first away clean sheet in nearly a year. With three consecutive wins in the bag, the Hornets have soared into the play-off spots, giving fans genuine hope that this could be a year to remember.
Behind the scenes, the club’s recruitment strategy is paying dividends. Duxbury highlighted the importance of signing young, promising players and giving them the platform to shine. “There is no better example than Othmane Maamma. He came to us in the summer as an unknown quality and extremely raw, and it’s testament to the work of the coaching staff, the backroom staff, and the player himself that he’s developed into a player of glittering promise.” The summer’s focus on youth has resulted in a vibrant squad, with the imminent returns of Kwadwo Baah and Vata set to increase competition for places even further.
Of course, the club faces the perennial challenge of balancing squad depth with opportunities for emerging talent. Duxbury addressed the possibility of departures in the January transfer window, stating, “With Baah and Vata to return soon, it’s clear there will be even more competition in the matchday squad and other players may have to leave, but they will only be the ones Javi believes would benefit from a fresh start. Nobody will leave that Javi doesn’t want to lose.”
Watford’s progress is not limited to the pitch. The club’s retail and marketing operations are thriving, as evidenced by the special edition third kit becoming the fastest-selling shirt in club history. The sight of lifelong fan Elton John and his sons donning the kit at Vicarage Road was a moment to savor for supporters and staff alike. The club’s hospitality offering has also reached new heights, now rivaling those of some Premier League outfits.
This season has also marked the end of an era for several long-serving staff members, including Richard Walker, Gayle Clarke, Richard Line, and Jimmy Gilligan. The latter’s departure as Head of Academy Technical Development was particularly poignant, with Duxbury reflecting, “It was fitting we reached the semi-final of the FA Youth Cup in his final season with us because it was winning the Youth Cup with us as a player that launched Jimmy’s career.” The Academy remains in good hands, with a blend of former players and new coaches fostering a ‘boot-room’ culture that bodes well for the future.
The women’s team is another source of pride, with former loanee Michelle Agyemang’s recognition as young player of the tournament at the 2025 Euros underscoring the club’s ability to attract and develop top talent. Under Helen Ward’s leadership, the women’s side is firmly in the hunt for promotion, adding another layer of excitement for the Watford faithful.
Watford’s commitment to the community continues to shine through the work of the Community Sports & Education Trust, which boasts a social value of £22.7 million. The new Family Zone at the stadium, recognized for excellence by the EFL, has become a focal point for fans on matchdays, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Duxbury shared a touching story of a young fan whose spirits were lifted after a chance encounter with the players, emphasizing the club’s family ethos and the importance of connecting with supporters.
With more than 5,550 Junior Members and a swelling sense of optimism throughout the club, Watford is poised for an exciting journey in 2026. The blend of youthful exuberance, experienced leadership, and community spirit has created an environment where anything seems possible. As Duxbury concluded in his address to supporters, “There is a lot to be proud of about this wonderful, community-based and progressive football club. I’m really excited about what this new year will bring.”
As the Hornets prepare for the challenges ahead, one thing is clear: Watford is a club on the rise, united by ambition, resilience, and the unwavering support of its fans. With momentum on their side and the play-offs in sight, the stage is set for a thrilling second half of the season at Vicarage Road.