In a move that recognizes his immense impact on English football, Gareth Southgate has been bestowed with a knighthood in the 2024 New Year Honours List. The 54-year-old, who recently stepped down as England manager after eight transformative years at the helm, joins an elite group of just four knighted England bosses.
Leading the Three Lions to New Heights
During his tenure, Southgate orchestrated a remarkable resurgence of the England national team. He guided the Three Lions to consecutive European Championship finals in 2020 and 2024, as well as a World Cup semi-final appearance in 2018 – their best performance since 1990. Though they fell just short against Spain in the Euro 2024 final, losing 2-1 in a hard-fought encounter, Southgate’s impact extended far beyond results on the pitch.
A Cultural Revolution
Southgate’s leadership ushered in a new era for English football, both in terms of playing style and team culture. He championed a progressive, possession-based approach that allowed young talents like Phil Foden and Jadon Sancho to flourish. Off the field, Southgate fostered an environment of inclusivity, humility, and unity that endeared the team to fans across the nation.
“I think the biggest thing for me is the way he’s made the England team a team England can be proud of. The way he’s connected all the fans to the team, it’s something I’ve never seen before.”
– Harry Kane, England Captain
Joining Legendary Company
With his knighthood, Southgate enters rarified air, becoming just the fourth former England manager to receive the honor. He joins Sir Alf Ramsey, who led England to their 1966 World Cup triumph, Sir Walter Winterbottom, the first ever full-time England manager, and Sir Bobby Robson, who guided the team to the 1990 World Cup semi-finals.
- Sir Alf Ramsey (1920-1999) – England Manager 1963-1974
- Sir Walter Winterbottom (1913-2002) – England Manager 1946-1962
- Sir Bobby Robson (1933-2009) – England Manager 1982-1990
- Sir Gareth Southgate (1970-) – England Manager 2016-2024
Celebrating Paris 2024 Success
Southgate’s knighthood headlines a New Year Honours List filled with British sporting excellence. Fourteen Olympians and 24 Paralympians who starred at the Paris 2024 Games have been recognized for their achievements.
800m gold medalist Keely Hodgkinson receives an MBE, as do sprinting star Dina Asher-Smith and heptathlon silver medalist Katarina Johnson-Thompson. Cyclist Tom Pidcock and swimmer Duncan Scott have been upgraded to OBEs after their Paris heroics, while rower Helen Glover, who won silver after coming out of retirement, also earns an OBE.
“It really has been an amazing year and this feels like the cherry on the cake. I didn’t go to university and I never thought I’d ever have any letters after my name, let alone MBE.”
– Ellie Aldridge, Kitesurfing Gold Medalist, Paris 2024
Legends Honoured
Beyond Southgate, several other sporting legends have been celebrated in the 2024 honours. Wales and British & Irish Lions rugby icon Gerald Davies has been knighted for his services to sport and charity, while former Formula 1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle receives an OBE. Ex-Liverpool defender and BBC pundit Alan Hansen has been made an MBE for services to football and broadcasting.
As 2024 draws to a close, the New Year Honours List serves as a fitting tribute to the remarkable individuals who have contributed so much to British sport. From the pitch to the track, the pool to the commentary box, their dedication, skill and passion continue to inspire generations. And in Gareth Southgate, England has a true footballing knight in shining armor.
