Sporting Icons and Community Champions Honored in New Year’s Awards
A new wave of honors has been bestowed upon figures from the world of sport and community service, recognizing exceptional achievements and dedication. From legendary skaters to footballing heroes and dedicated administrators, the awards span a diverse range of disciplines, highlighting the significant impact these individuals have made both on and off the field.
Knighthoods and Damehoods Recognize Lifetime Achievement
The highest accolades were reserved for icons of British sport. Sir Christopher Dean, the celebrated former ice skater, has been knighted for his services to ice skating and his extensive voluntary work. Alongside him, Dame Jayne Torvill, his long-time skating partner, receives a damehood for similar contributions. Their groundbreaking performances captivated audiences for decades, and their continued commitment to the sport is widely lauded.
Adding to the list of top honors, Sarina Wiegman, the manager who led the England women’s football team to victory in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, has been awarded an honorary damehood. This recognition acknowledges her transformative impact on the sport, despite her nationality as a Dutch national.
Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) Celebrate Leadership
The rank of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) was awarded to a group demonstrating leadership and significant contributions. Jonathan Davies, former Welsh rugby player, is recognized for his work as president of the Velindre Cancer Care Trust, a testament to his commitment to charitable causes. Daniel Levy, the former executive chairman of Tottenham Hotspur, receives a CBE for his services to charity and the community in Tottenham, acknowledging his philanthropic efforts.
Football is also represented at this level, with Leah Williamson, captain of the England women’s team, honored for her services to the sport. Fergus McCann, the former chief executive of Celtic, is recognized for his contributions to the economy and charity.
Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) Acknowledge Dedication
A broad spectrum of sporting disciplines are represented among those appointed as Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Zoe Stratford, England rugby captain, is recognized for her service to rugby union. Frankie Allen, a Para-rower, receives an OBE for her contributions to disability sport and her work improving access to sport for young people.
Cricket also features prominently, with Derek Brewer, former Nottinghamshire and MCC chief executive, and Barry O’Brien, a cricket administrator, both honored for their dedication to the sport. Dr. Ann Budge, former chair and CEO of Hearts, is recognized for her service to sport and the community in Midlothian, while Dr. James Craig, a former Celtic player, is honored for his contributions to Scottish football and charity.
Broadcasting and coaching are also acknowledged, with OBEs awarded to Gabby Logan for her services to sports broadcasting and charity, John Mitchell, England head coach for services to rugby union, Paula Radcliffe for her contributions as a broadcaster and former athlete, and Clive Tyldesley for his services to sports broadcasting and charity. Stuart Pringle, CEO of Silverstone Circuit, is recognized for his service to motorsport, and Gill Whitehead, chair of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, for her service to women’s rugby. Marlie Packer (rugby union) and Sarah-Jane Perry (squash) also receive OBEs for their respective sporting achievements.
Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) Recognize Grassroots Impact
The Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) list showcases individuals making a significant impact at the grassroots level. Dr. Frances Akor, a non-executive director at UK Anti-Doping, is honored for her service to sport. Joe Appiah, an athlete, is recognized for his contributions to sport, public health, and public service. Susan Briegal, CEO of World Netball, receives an MBE for her service to the sport.
Community involvement is a recurring theme, with Daniel Costello, chair of Spartans Football Club, recognized for his service to community, sport, and youth development. Kerry Davis, a former England international, is honored for her service to football and diversity in sport. Simone Fisher, director of equality, diversity, and inclusion at the Professional Footballers’ Association, receives an MBE for her work in football.
Numerous current and former athletes are also recognized, including Alex Greenwood, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, and Keira Walsh (all England internationals in football), Megan Jones and Sadia Kabeya (rugby union), Ellie Kildunne (rugby union), Rhys McClenaghan (gymnastics), Toby Roberts (sport climbing), and Isa Guha (broadcaster and former cricketer). Further MBEs are awarded to Tara Jones (rugby league referee), James Keothavong (tennis umpire), Louise Kingsley (Great Britain rowing team director of performance), David Laing (Scottish Borders Disability Sports Group chair), Julia Lee (rugby league advocate), Sarah Massey (Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 managing director), Dr. Ritan Mehta (England women’s football team doctor), David Perks (athletics coach), Kambiz Ramzan Ali (Taekwondo master), Nigel Travis (boxing coach), Colin Wright and Marie Wright (co-founders of Rushmoor Gymnastics Academy).
These awards collectively represent a powerful testament to the enduring impact of sport and dedicated service within the United Kingdom. They highlight not only athletic excellence but also the vital role individuals play in strengthening communities and inspiring future generations.
