Former England manager Gareth Southgate has been knighted in the New Year Honours list, capping a managerial career that transformed England’s national football team from 2016 to 2024. Southgate becomes the fourth England manager to receive this distinction, joining legends Alf Ramsey, Walter Winterbottom, and Bobby Robson.
Southgate’s Tenure and Legacy
During his eight-year stint, Southgate led England to two consecutive European Championship finals, finishing as runners-up in both—losing to Italy on penalties in 2021 and to Spain in 2024. Under his guidance, England also reached the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the 2022 quarter-finals.
Southgate stepped down after the Euro 2024 final and hinted at retiring from management. He will be succeeded by German coach Thomas Tuchel, who officially begins his tenure on January 1 as England prepares for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Other Sporting Honourees
Gerald Davies
- The former Wales rugby wing and British & Irish Lions legend has also been knighted.
- Represented Wales during their golden era (1966–1978), winning three Grand Slams.
- Played in the Lions’ historic 1971 series victory over New Zealand, scoring three Test tries.
- On his knighthood, Davies said: “I feel very emotional. You don’t achieve these things on your own.”
Athletics Stars
- Keely Hodgkinson (MBE): Olympic 800m gold medallist in Paris 2024, becoming only the third British woman to win the event after Ann Packer and Kelly Holmes.
- Katarina Johnson-Thompson (MBE): Won her first Olympic medal, a heptathlon silver, at Paris 2024.
- Dina Asher-Smith (MBE): Three-time Olympic medallist recognized for her contributions to athletics.
- Hannah Cockroft (CBE): Nine-time Paralympic champion who defended her T34 100m and 800m titles in Paris 2024, said, “This is the perfect ending to an incredible year.”
Alan Hansen (MBE)
- Former Liverpool defender and celebrated football pundit, recognized for services to football and broadcasting.
A Year of Sporting Excellence
The honours list reflects a year of exceptional achievements across sports, celebrating icons who left indelible marks on their respective fields. From Southgate’s transformative leadership in football to Paralympian Cockroft’s dominance, the honourees highlight the breadth of talent and dedication in British sports.
