King bestows seven honours to mark Lionesses’ historic success as Sarina Wiegman made honorary dame
King Charles has awarded seven individuals honours to mark the historic success the Lionesses have achieved.
Sarina Wiegman has received an honorary damehood as part of the New Year Honours, recognising her remarkable achievements at the helm of England’s women’s national team.
The Dutch manager guided the Lionesses to back-to-back European Championship triumphs, with the most recent victory coming this summer in Switzerland.
England defeated reigning world champions Spain on penalties in the final, adding to their 2022 home tournament success.
Click here to read the New Year Honours List 2026 in full.
Sarina Wiegman and Leah Williamson celebrating the Lionesses’ Euro 2025 triumph.
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Wiegman also took the team to the 2023 World Cup final during her tenure, which began in September 2021.
The 55-year-old was recently named women’s coach of the year at The Best FIFA Football Awards.
Wiegman expressed deep gratitude upon learning of the recognition, saying: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude for this honour.”
The coach reflected on her journey since taking charge of the national side more than four years ago.
“When I first arrived in England, I could never have imagined the respect and warmth I’ve experienced from the English people,” she said.
“I deeply thank the fans for their support.”
Sarina Wiegman has received an honorary damehood as part of the New Year Honours, recognising her remarkable achievements at the helm of England’s women’s national team.
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Before joining England, Wiegman had already established herself as one of the world’s leading coaches, steering her native Netherlands to European Championship glory in 2017 and a World Cup final appearance two years later.
Several of Wiegman’s players have also been recognised in the New Year Honours list.
Captain Leah Williamson has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her leadership of the double European champions.
Four of her teammates who played key roles in both tournament victories have received MBEs: defenders Alex Greenwood and Keira Walsh, midfielder Georgia Stanway, and forward Ella Toone.
Dr Ritan Mehta, who serves as the England women’s head of medical and team doctor, has also been made an MBE for services to football.
Captain Leah Williamson has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her leadership of the double European champions.
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Wiegman paid tribute to her entire squad, emphasising that the honour reflected a collective effort rather than individual achievement.
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Wiegman paid tribute to her entire squad, emphasising that the honour reflected a collective effort rather than individual achievement.
“This title is a reflection of my exceptional team of players and staff,” she said, congratulating the players and Dr Mehta who were also recognised.
“Our team values mean that when there is recognition for one, then there is recognition for all. I want to pay tribute to every member of our Euro squad.”
The coach praised her players for their contributions both on the pitch and in wider society, describing them as “a dedicated group of people.”
Looking ahead, Wiegman outlined the team’s next target: “As we look ahead to our next objective, qualifying for the 2027 World Cup, we hope we can continue to make the country proud.”
