England's history-making Lionesses and their inspirational manager, Sarina Wiegman, are poised for royal recognition following their spectacular UEFA Women's Euros victory last summer. According to reports, Wiegman is in line to receive a damehood in the upcoming New Year Honours list.
The Dutch coach, who masterminded the 2-1 extra-time win over Germany at a sold-out Wembley Stadium, would join an elite group of footballing knights, a honour previously bestowed upon male managers like Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson.
Captain Fantastic Also Set for Honour
It's not just the manager being rewarded for ending England's 56-year major tournament drought. Team captain Leah Williamson, who lifted the trophy in front of a record-breaking crowd, is also expected to be recognised with an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire).
The entire squad, which became national heroes and sparked a wave of enthusiasm for women's football across the UK, is likely to receive collective honours for their unprecedented achievement.
A Reward for Transforming the Game
The anticipated honours are seen as a fitting tribute to a team that captured the nation's heart. Their success is credited with fundamentally changing the landscape of women's football in England, leading to record attendances at Women's Super League matches and inspiring a new generation of players.
This potential knighthood for Wiegman would mark a rapid and deserved rise for a manager who has achieved unparalleled success since taking the role in September 2021. She now stands on the brink of joining English footballing royalty.
