On June 25, 2025, former England football manager Gareth Southgate was officially knighted at Windsor Castle by Prince William, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
The 54-year-old, recognized for his transformative contributions to English football, received the honor in the King’s New Year Honours List 2025 for his services to association football. Southgate becomes only the fourth England manager to be knighted, joining the esteemed company of Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey, and Sir Bobby Robson.
Former England boss Gareth Southgate has received a knighthood 🎖 pic.twitter.com/Lq77tVGGLI
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) June 25, 2025
Southgate’s knighthood celebrates his remarkable eight-year tenure as England’s manager, during which he led the Three Lions to unprecedented heights in recent decades. Under his leadership, England reached the finals of the UEFA European Championships in 2020 and 2024, falling just short of victory with a 2-1 defeat to Spain in the latter. He also guided the team to the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, England’s best performance in the tournament since 1990. Across 102 matches, Southgate achieved 61 wins, 24 draws, and 17 defeats, making him the only England men’s manager to lead the team to two major tournament finals.
Reflecting on the honor, Southgate described it as “an amazing privilege,” admitting to being more emotional than anticipated during the ceremony. “It’s a period of consistency in English football. The journey we went on with the fans and team, working with a special group of players and staff, was special,” he told Sky Sports. He also humorously noted in a December social media post that his family was unlikely to call him “Sir” at home, underscoring his down-to-earth persona.
Sir Gareth Southgate has received a knighthood at Windsor Castle for his services to football 🚨 pic.twitter.com/eQXXcpt9Um
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) June 25, 2025
Southgate’s impact extended beyond results on the pitch. He is credited with restoring pride in the England shirt, fostering unity among players, and rebuilding the bond between the squad and its supporters. FA Chair Debbie Hewitt praised him as one of England’s “greatest ever managers,” highlighting his embodiment of “the best of English football.” She noted his ability to bring fans closer to the team and inspire players to take pride in representing their country. Former England defender Jamie Carragher echoed this sentiment, calling Southgate’s achievements a “great” feat, noting that he created “one of the best England teams we’ve had” since the 1966 World Cup triumph.
Southgate’s journey to knighthood was not without challenges. Taking over in 2016 after England’s humiliating defeat to Iceland in the Euros, he transformed the team into one of the world’s best defensive units. Despite criticism for his cautious tactics and the lack of a trophy, his thoughtful leadership and dignity earned widespread respect. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously lauded Southgate for “shouldering the dreams of the country with dignity and honour,” while Prince William called him an “all-round class act” for his humility and leadership under pressure.
A former player with 57 caps for England between 1995 and 2004, Southgate also enjoyed a distinguished club career, making over 600 appearances for Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Middlesbrough. His coaching path began with the Football Association in 2011, leading the under-21s before stepping into the senior role. His cultural influence was notable, too—his iconic waistcoat during the 2018 World Cup became a fashion phenomenon.
The knighthood ceremony, held at Windsor Castle, also saw other sporting figures honored, including British and Irish Lions wing Gerald Davies, knighted for his services to rugby union. Southgate’s recognition follows his earlier appointment as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2019. Cleared of a tax-related probe last year, his path to this prestigious honor was unimpeded, allowing him to be celebrated for his contributions to the sport.
As Sir Gareth steps back from management, he expressed excitement about exploring new ventures, including work supporting young men and raising awareness about positive role models. While he remains optimistic about England’s future under new manager Thomas Tuchel, he emphasized the importance of giving the team space to succeed. “They’re a brilliant group of players and staff,” he said, hopeful they can “go the next step” at the 2026 World Cup.
The knighthood has sparked mixed reactions. While many, including fans and pundits, celebrate Southgate’s transformative legacy, some critics on platforms like X question the honor, citing his lack of silverware. Nevertheless, his impact on English football’s culture and competitiveness is undeniable, cementing his place as a national icon.
Sir Gareth Southgate’s knighthood is a fitting tribute to a man who brought hope, unity, and pride back to English football, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.