Diverse Sporting Figures Recognised in the New Year Honours List

A mix of prominent sports personalities, including England’s Lionesses and cricket veteran Stuart Broad, receive accolades in the New Year Honours list. Millie Bright, England’s World Cup captain, attains an OBE, while Mary Earps and Lauren Hemp are designated MBEs. Retired cricketer Stuart Broad is elevated to a CBE.

Former Leeds rugby league players Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield earn CBEs for their contributions to motor neurone disease (MND) awareness, amassing over £8 million for MND charities. The acknowledgment comes on the heels of a triumphant year for the Lionesses, culminating in their inaugural World Cup final appearance after securing the 2022 European Championship.

Bright, Earps, and Hemp join other Lionesses honoured in the 2023 New Year Honours, with Leah Williamson named an OBE and Lucy Bronze, Beth Mead, and retired Ellen White securing MBEs.

In her reaction, Millie Bright expresses astonishment and pride, emphasising the unexpected nature of such an esteemed accolade. Mary Earps, also recognised as BBC Sports Personality of the Year, shares in the appreciation.

Football luminary Howard Wilkinson, former Leeds manager and LMA chair, secures an OBE for his services to football and charity. Peter Shilton, a revered ex-England goalkeeper, attains a CBE for his contributions to football and efforts in preventing gambling-related harm. Ron Dennis, erstwhile McLaren CEO, receives knighthood for contributions to industry and charity, while Red Bull’s Christian Horner attains a CBE.

Sir Bill Beaumont, World Rugby chair, receives the prestigious title of Knight Grand Cross for his services to rugby union and charity. Olympic hockey goalkeeper Maddie Hinch and former cricketer Marcus Trescothick are named OBEs for their impactful roles.

Gymnasts Becky and Ellie Downie, race walker Tom Bosworth, rugby star Stuart Hogg, and netball sensation Helen Housby are bestowed with MBEs. Sports broadcasters Hazel Irvine and Jeff Stelling also receive MBEs for their commendable contributions to sports and charitable causes.