Great Britain Accolades for former England coach and London mayor
At the turn of the year, the British royal family awards honors for special services: once again, personalities from sport, politics and entertainment are honored.
31.12.2024, 00:05
SDA
Rise up, Sir Gareth! Although he was unable to win a title, former England national football coach Gareth Southgate will be knighted. This is according to the British royal family's New Year's honors list.
The 54-year-old former England international has been head coach of the Three Lions since 2016 and can look back on an impressive record. He led the team to the final of the European Championships twice and to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup. He stepped down after the defeat to Spain in the final of the European Championships this summer. He was succeeded by German Thomas Tuchel at the start of the year.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan was also knighted. The 54-year-old succeeded Boris Johnson as mayor of the British capital in 2016. The Labour politician is the first Muslim to hold the post. The most important issues during his time in office include the fight against knife crime in London and efforts to reduce air pollution. However, the extension of the Ulez environmental zone to the outer boroughs of London in particular also earned him fierce opposition.
For his commitment to mental health, the environment and charity, actor Stephen Fry receives a "gong", as the knighthood award is sometimes jokingly called. The 67-year-old was "surprised and charmed", according to a report by the PA news agency. The head of the British domestic intelligence service MI5, Ken McCallum, is also being honored
A Royal awards the medals
Knighthoods and decorations of the Royal Household are always awarded on the recommendation of the government. However, King Charles III also presents awards to his team of doctors who have been accompanying him during his cancer treatment since the beginning of the outgoing year. The actual award ceremony is held later by a member of the Royal Family.
