Gareth Southgate, the former England football manager, has been awarded a knighthood for his outstanding contributions to the sport.
After leading the England team to two consecutive Euro finals, he’s now been recognized with one of the highest honours in British sport.
The knighthood comes on the heels of his leadership during the Three Lions’ remarkable journey to the final of Euro 2024 in Germany.
This recognition highlights Southgate’s dedication to the national team and the lasting impact he’s made in English football.
A Rollercoaster Journey to the Top
Southgate’s road to this honour wasn’t without its bumps.
Earlier this year, an investigation into his tax affairs threatened to delay the knighthood.
However, following a thorough review, tax officials concluded that Southgate had not violated any regulations.
This cleared the way for the honour to be awarded.
Despite the setbacks, Southgate’s legacy as a leader who brought hope to England, especially after guiding them to the Euro 2020 and 2024 finals, as well as the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, solidified his place in history.
After resigning post-Euro 2024, Southgate’s eight-year tenure will be remembered fondly by fans.
A Missed Opportunity for David Beckham
While Southgate celebrates his knighthood, his former teammate David Beckham once again misses out on the prestigious title.
Despite years of speculation and a history of setbacks, including his notorious 2013 outburst over the honours process, Beckham’s wait continues.
He has since worked on mending his image, building relationships with figures like Prince William and King Charles.
His recent high-profile appearances, including at the Emir of Qatar’s state banquet, led many to believe this might be his year, but it seems Beckham will have to wait longer for a similar honour.
Team GB’s Triumphs Recognised
Southgate isn’t the only one being celebrated in this year’s honours.
Following Team GB’s stellar performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, numerous athletes have been awarded for their achievements.
Among them, 22-year-old Keely Hodkinson received an MBE after winning gold in the 800 metres and being named BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
Other notable recipients include two-time Olympic champion Tom Pidcock, who earned an OBE for his mountain biking gold, and rower Helen Glover, who was awarded an OBE for her bronze in the Women’s Pair event.
Glover, a gold medalist in 2012 and 2016, continues to add to her impressive list of accolades.
Recognition for the Paralympic Heroes
Team GB’s success wasn’t limited to able-bodied athletes.
The Paralympic team also made waves in Paris, finishing second with a record-breaking 124 medals, including 49 golds.
Hannah Cockroft, who dominated the T34 100m and 800m events, was named a CBE.
Other notable para-athletes, including Tully Kearney, Samantha Kinghorn, and Alice Tai, were also recognised for their contributions to British Paralympic success.
Honours for Other Sporting Legends
The recognition didn’t stop there.
Former F1 driver Martin Brundle received an OBE, while ex-Scotland and Liverpool footballer Alan Hansen was honoured with an MBE.
Additionally, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso’s father, Andrew, received an overseas MBE for his services to international eyecare in Malawi and Nigeria.
This year’s honours reflect the incredible talent and dedication of British athletes across multiple sports, with Southgate leading the charge as the proud recipient of a knighthood.