Sarina Wiegman, the manager of England, led the Lionesses to a second consecutive European Championship triumph and was named women’s coach of the year at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris.
The 55-year-old Dutchwoman defeated fierce opposition, including Arthur Elias of Brazil, Sonia Bompastor of Chelsea, Renée Slegers of Arsenal, and Justine Madugu of Nigeria, to win the coveted Johan Cruyff Trophy for best women’s coach.
In a nail-biting final against Spain, Wiegman led England to Euro 2025 success in Switzerland. Following their 2021 victory at home, the Lionesses maintained their composure to win 3-1 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in extra time.
Wiegman referred to the medal as “an honour” in her acceptance speech and recalled a summer that she described as “very special.” She acknowledged the teamwork that lead to England’s success and thanked her players, technical staff, the FA, and her family for their support.
She also took use of the occasion to draw attention to the quick development of women’s football and the associated obligations. “We’ve broken records and the women’s game has grown,” she remarked. “That development entails accountability. We must maintain our identity. Be genuine and inclusive. We must struggle against racism and misogyny.
Wiegman’s status as one of the most successful women’s football coaches is further cemented by the accolade. She has led the Lionesses to two European championships and a World Cup final since taking over England in 2021, increasing the team’s reputation both domestically and internationally.
Her victory carries on the women’s game’s dominant trend, as her teams continuously blend tactical precision, tenacity, and flair. The Lionesses’ victory over Spain on penalties demonstrated her capacity to handle stressful situations at the highest level.
The English coach said, “What an honour. A very special summer, an insane tournament in Switzerland. I want to thank the players, staff, FA and my family for my unconditional support. The women’s game has grown and we’ve broken records. With that growth comes responsibility. We have to keep our identity. Be authentic, be inclusive. We have to fight against misogyny, against racism. Let’s keep uniting and enjoy our beautiful game and if Burna Boy’s around, maybe a bit of dancing too.”
