England women’s football manager Sarina Wiegman has been officially named the BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year for the second time, marking a historic achievement in international football. The Dutch coach, 56, guided the England Lionesses to their second consecutive UEFA Women’s European Championship title, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest coaches in women’s football history.

Wiegman’s Historic Achievement

Wiegman first made history in 2022 as the first woman to win the prestigious Coach of the Year award. This year, she became the first female manager to win the award multiple times, a recognition of her outstanding leadership and tactical brilliance.

“It’s an absolute honour to be here again,” Wiegman said. “This award is for the players and staff. I have been part of a tremendous team, an incredible group of players and staff.”

Road to Euro 2025 Glory

Wiegman took over as England manager in September 2021, replacing Phil Neville. She quickly transformed the Lionesses into one of the most formidable sides in women’s football. Under her guidance, England won Euro 2022, defeating Germany 2-1 in the Wembley final, securing the nation’s first major trophy in women’s football.

The team then reached the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final in Australia, narrowly losing 1-0 to Spain. Despite the setback, Wiegman’s leadership ensured that England remained at the pinnacle of international football, and the Euro 2025 campaign showcased the team’s resilience and skill.

England’s path to the Euro 2025 final was historic. The Lionesses became the first team in the tournament’s history to have three matches go into extra time. In the final held in Switzerland, they drew 1-1 with Spain before prevailing 3-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout. Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton saved two crucial penalties, securing England’s victory.

With this triumph, Wiegman became just the second manager, after Germany’s Christina Theune, to win three consecutive European Championships, highlighting her exceptional coaching record.

Record-Breaking Leadership

Wiegman’s influence extends beyond England. She also led the Netherlands to the Euro 2017 title and the 2019 World Cup final, making her the first women’s or men’s manager to reach five consecutive major international finals.

“What made an absolute difference is that we were the best-bonded team – and we were so together. The togetherness in this team was so special and it was incredible to be a part of,” Wiegman said. “Every coach – especially every female coach – enjoy yourself, have fun. You can absolutely make a difference.”

Additional Accolades

Following England’s success, Wiegman received multiple international awards:

• Women’s Coach of the Year at the 2025 Ballon d’Or Awards
• FIFA Best Women’s Coach award, marking her fifth win

Wiegman now joins an elite list of coaches to win the BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year award more than once, including Arsène Wenger, Sir Dave Brailsford, and Sir Gareth Southgate.

The Legacy of the BBC Sports Personality Coach Award

The BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year award has a rich history, first won by Sir Alex Ferguson in 1999. Previous winners include legends like Sir Clive Woodward, Colin Montgomerie, and Claudio Ranieri. Wiegman’s repeat victory underscores the growing recognition of women’s football and female leadership in sport.

With Wiegman at the helm, the Lionesses are not just champions of Europe; they are pioneers, inspiring a generation of young footballers and coaches around the world.