Former England manager Gareth Southgate has been awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours list, recognizing his outstanding contributions to English football.
The 54-year-old stepped down from his managerial role in July after leading England to the final of Euro 2024, where they suffered a narrow defeat to Spain. This marked Southgate’s second consecutive European final with the team, adding to his earlier achievement of guiding England to the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup during his eight-year tenure.
Reflecting on his legacy, Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt praised Southgate for embodying the best qualities of English football. She highlighted his ability to unite fans with the team, his steadfast commitment to his principles, and the pride he instilled in players representing the nation.
“It has been a privilege to know the man and the manager,” Hewitt stated, adding that Southgate’s thoughtfulness, dedication, and leadership have left an indelible mark on English football.
Rugby legend Gerald Davies and Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson have also been recognized in the New Year Honours list.
Davies, 79, a former Wales and British and Irish Lions winger, will receive a knighthood for his contributions to rugby and his voluntary and charitable work in Wales. The former president of the Welsh Rugby Union (2019–2023) expressed his surprise and gratitude for the honor.
Speaking to the PA news agency, Davies said, “This recognition came as a surprise and left me utterly dumbstruck. You don’t achieve these things on your own.”
Meanwhile, 800m Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson has been appointed an MBE. The 22-year-old, who was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024, described the recognition as a “wonderful surprise.”
“This year has been incredibly special for so many reasons, and it’s such a nice surprise to have been honored in this way,” Hodgkinson remarked.
She joins several Team GB athletes and Paralympians who were recognized for their achievements during the Paris 2024 Games.
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