• 1966 football legend recognised by City of London Corporation
• Sir Geoff Hurst “honoured” to receive Freedom of the City of London
• City of London’s unique tribute coincides with 60^th anniversary of legendary England v West Germany game

One of the most celebrated figures in the history of world football has received the Freedom of the City of London, in recognition of his outstanding sporting achievements.

Sir Geoff Hurst MBE remains the only player ever to score a hat-trick in a World Cup Final for the winning team, which he achieved during England's historic 4-2 victory over West Germany at Wembley Stadium in 1966.

Sir Geoff established himself as a prolific striker with West Ham United, where he made 499 appearances and scored 248 goals. He was named Player of the Year on three occasions and helped secure the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965. As a key member of England's World Cup-winning team, Sir Geoff's three goals in the 1966 final secured his place in football history.

Following his departure from West Ham, Sir Geoff played for Stoke City, making 108 appearances and scoring 30 goals, before a spell with West Bromwich Albion.

He later combined playing and management as player-manager of Telford United and enjoyed periods playing in the United States and Kuwait. After retiring from playing, Sir Geoff served as assistant coach of the England national team under Ron Greenwood from 1977 to 1982, before taking charge of Chelsea FC as manager.

Sir Geoff has been nominated for the Freedom by Dame Susan Langley, Lady Mayor of the City of London, and the City of London Corporation’s Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward.

Speaking after his Freedom ceremony, Sir Geoff Hurst said:

“I feel privileged to have received the Freedom of the City of London at Guildhall. It is something that I never expected to be offered, and I regard it as a great honour.”

Dame Susan Langley, Lady Mayor of the City of London, said:

“Few names are more important in England's sporting story than Sir Geoff Hurst.

"His achievements on the pitch - and how can we forget his unforgettable World Cup Final performance 60 years ago - have inspired generations of players and supporters. For West Ham supporters like me, his contribution in claret and blue will always have a place in our history and in the hearts of Hammers fans everywhere.

“Sir Geoff’s Freedom, which I am delighted to support, is a fitting recognition of a truly remarkable individual.”

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said:

"Sir Geoff Hurst’s undeniably impressive sporting achievements – never more so than scoring the winning hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup Final - have brought pride and joy to millions of people.

“Recognising his outstanding contribution to football and subsequent roles as a coach, manager, and ambassador for the game, Sir Geoff’s Freedom is richly deserved.”

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.

Recent notable recipients include actor, Adrian Dunbar; choreographer and theatre director, Dame Arlene Phillips; City of London Police Commander Umer Khan; and TV and radio presenter and cancer charity ambassador, Gloria Hunniford.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

For further information, please contact Andrew Buckingham, Media Officer (Arts, Culture, Heritage, Sport, The Lord Mayor's Show), City of London Corporation / 07795 333060 / andrew.buckingham@cityoflondon.gov.uk

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK – www.cityoflondon.gov.uk