2023, AUGUST 31 – In a heartfelt gesture, Sarina Wiegman, the manager of the England women’s national football team, dedicated her UEFA Women’s Coach of the Year award to the Spanish women’s side who clinched the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup recently. This tribute comes in the midst of a controversy surrounding an incident where Luis Rubiales, the head of the Spanish Football Federation, kissed Jenni Hermoso during the World Cup celebrations, despite Hermoso later revealing that she had not given her consent for the act.
Wiegman delivered this tribute during the award ceremony held in Monaco, where she received the prestigious coaching accolade after guiding her team to the 2023 World Cup final against Spain, although they ultimately lost 1-0.
Addressing the gathering, Wiegman began by expressing her gratitude, particularly to her colleagues, for their support and the recognition she received. She praised the entire team involved with The Lionesses, including the players, acknowledging their incredible teamwork and the support they received from the FA.
However, the celebratory atmosphere was tinged with a sense of unease as Wiegman delved into the controversy surrounding the Spanish team. She conveyed her deep concern, not just as a coach but as a mother of two daughters and a wife, emphasising the need for progress in women’s football and society as a whole.
In a touching moment, Wiegman dedicated her award to the Spanish team, applauding their exceptional performance at the World Cup and advocating for their voices to be acknowledged and celebrated.
