Mark Cavendish Receives Knighthood in King's Birthday Honors

Mark Cavendish has received a knighthood in recognition of his achievements in cycling and charity work in the King’s Birthday Honours. Cavendish, 39, from the Isle of Man, equaled Eddy Merckx’s record of 34 Tour de France stage wins and aims to break the record at the upcoming Tour. “I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from His Majesty the King,” said Cavendish. “Representing my country and witnessing the growth of cycling in Great Britain during my career has brought me immense pride.” Mark Cavendish, who earned the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 2011, briefly retired in 2023 but returned for a final bid at the Tour de France stage wins record.

He also excelled in track cycling, winning three world titles and earning an Olympic silver medal in 2016. In addition to Cavendish, the King’s Birthday Honours also acknowledged former Scotland and Liverpool footballer Graeme Souness and ex-England cricketer Katherine Sciver-Brunt. Souness, 71, received a CBE for his contributions to football and charity, particularly his work with the DEBRA UK charity.  Sciver-Brunt, who retired last year with 335 wickets for England women, received an OBE for her contributions to women’s cricket and the Yorkshire community.

Other recipients included former Lioness Karen Carney, ex-Scotland striker Ally McCoist, Scottish golfer Sandy Lyle and rugby union referee Wayne Barnes, each honored for their significant contributions to their respective sports.