Several England Lionesses have been named in the 2026 New Year Honours list.
Manager, Sarina Wiegman oversaw the Lionesses’ title defence of UEFA Women’s Euro as they became the first senior England team to win a title on foreign soil in Switzerland in July.
Her achievement saw her named a honorary dame (Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire), which is a rare title given to foreign internationals who have made exemplary service to the UK or international achievements.
Reflecting on her honorary damehood, Wiegman issued a statement on www.englandfootball.com expressing her “sincere gratitude” to receive the honour.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude for this honour. When I first arrived in England, I could never have imagined the respect and warmth I’ve experienced from the English people. I deeply thank the fans for their support.
“This title is a reflection of my exceptional team of players and staff. My congratulations go to Alex, Ella, Georgia, Keira, Leah and also Dr Ritan Mehta who have all been celebrated for their brilliant contributions.
“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. They should all be celebrated for everything they brought to the pitch and for the positive role they play in society. I’m proud to work alongside such a dedicated group of people.
“I’d also like to congratulate Kerry Davis, she is a Lionesses legend and the women’s game would not be where it is today without her, and the contribution of so many former players. We have a lot to thank her for.
“It’s been a special year and as we look ahead to our next objective, qualifying for the 2027 World Cup, we hope we can continue to make the country proud.”
Captain, Leah Williamson has been promoted from OBE to CBE, whilst Alex Greenwood, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone and Keira Walsh will receive MBE honours, alongside England Women’s first black international and goalscorer – Kerry Davies.
England Women’s Team Doctor, Dr Ritan Mehta has also been honoured with an MBE which he considered to be “an absolute privilege” after 11 years with the team.
“It is an absolute privilege to be awarded an MBE, and I can hardly believe it.
“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the FA, the Lionesses’ players and staff, and to my family, friends and colleagues who have supported me throughout my career. I would be nowhere without their encouragement and guidance. In particular, I want to pay tribute to my wife, children, parents and brother for always being by my side.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have provided medical care to the Lionesses over the past eleven and a half years. To have played a part in supporting the team as they achieved their dreams — including back-to-back UEFA Women’s European Championship titles and World Cup bronze and silver medals — has been the ultimate honour.”
FA Chair, Debbie Hewitt MBE congratulated those who received honours as she reflected on “another historic year” for the Lionesses
“All of their contributions extend far beyond their outstanding performances on the pitch, which helped secure back-to-back European Championships in 2022 and 2025. Equally important is their shared commitment to making a positive impact on society.
“Each of them has embraced the responsibility of being a role model for a generation of girls with sincerity and purpose. They have not only lifted trophies but helped lift the sport and society itself. Their recognition is thoroughly deserved.”
Hewitt also paid tribute to “exceptional” Wiegman for her services as she continued: “In Sarina Wiegman, we feel incredibly privileged to have not only the world’s leading head coach, but also an exceptional leader – someone who leads with integrity, humility, and a deep belief in human connection.
“This award recognises her remarkable achievements on the pitch and the profound impact she continues to make away from it. It is further testament to how she has captured the hearts of the English public.”
Mehta also received praise from Hewitt for the fact that his work has been recognised as she acknowledged those who were part of a successful year.
“Our sincere congratulations also to Dr Ritan Mehta on being awarded an MBE. Having worked with the Lionesses with distinction since 2014, we are delighted his contribution to the team, and the sport, has been recognised in this way.
“We would also like to pay tribute to the entire EURO squad and support staff. Each and every individual played a vital role in this summer’s success. In the environment Sarina’s nurtured, no contribution is greater than any other and we are immensely proud of them all.
“Finally, I would like to extend my congratulations, on behalf of the FA, to other members of the football family who have been recognised with honours. The current generation of Lionesses stand on the shoulders of trailblazers such as Kerry Davis. The sport would not be where it is today without her contribution, and we all have much to thank her for.”
Elsewhere in sport, 1984 Ice-Skating Gold Medallists, Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean have received damehood and knighthood respectively for their contribution to the sport for 50 years, having brought the curtain down on their career this summer.
England Women’s Rugby Union manager, John Mitchell has been appointed OBE despite hailing from New Zealand for his services to the sport, whilst the same honour has been bestowed on captain – Zoe Stratford after the Red Roses won the World Cup on home soil in September.
Red Roses’ vice-captains, Marlie Packer and Megan Jones have received OBE and MBE respectively, whilst Sadia Kabeya and BBC Sports Personality of the Year runner-up, Ellie Kildunne have been given MBEs.
Silverstone’s Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Pringle has received a OBE for his services to motorsport.
Sports presenter, Gabby Logan and football commentator, Clive Tyldesley have been giving OBEs for their services to broadcasting and charity.
BBC Sports presenter, Isa Guha has become an MBE for her work toward inclusivity and cricket.
Ex Tottenham Chairman, Daniel Levy has received a CBE for his services to charity and the community of Tottenham.
Broadcaster and former England cricketer Isa Guha is made an MBE for inclusivity and cricket.
Gymnast, Rhys McClenaghan has received MBE for his services to gymnastics, whilst ex Marathon world-record holder, Paula Radcliffe has become an OBE.
Ex Welsh rugby player, Jonathan Davies has been awarded a CBE for his work as president of Velindre Cancer Care Trust.
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