Sarina Wiegman, the manager of England, is the best FIFA Women’s Coach for 2022, ahead of Pia Sundhage of Brazil and Sonia Bompastor of Lyon.
After taking over as Lionesses head coach in September 2021, she has led the squad to an incredible 29-game undefeated streak. They’ve won the UEFA Women’s Euros and the Arnold Clark Cup back-to-back.
Sarina Wiegman named FIFA Best Coach in 2017 after leading the Netherlands to European victory. She also named same title back in 2020. Last year, Chelsea manager Emma Hayes won the award ahead of Wiegman and former Barcelona coach Lluis Cortes.
Wiegman faced Lyon manager Sonia Bompastor, who had just finished her first full season in command of the French club. By defeating Barcelona in the final, they won their respective league titles as well as the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Brazil manager Pia Sundhage was also in the list for the prize; the 63-year-old led her team to Copa America Feminina gold last year, during which they did not surrender a single goal. Sundhage has coached some of the world’s most powerful teams, including the United States and Sweden.
From a shortlist of six candidates, which included Hayes, Bev Priestman, the head coach of Canada, and Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, the head coach of Germany, the winner for this year was selected. Coaches, captains, journalists, and fans voted for their best three picks for the award.
The list of nominees is cut down to three finalists earlier this month, and national team coaches aren’t able to cast votes for themselves. Besides from Wiegman and Hayes, past winners of the prize include Silvia Neid, Reynald Pedros, and Jill Ellis.
Sarina Wiegman wins the best FIFA Women’s Coach Award for 2022
“I’ve loved football since I could walk,” Wiegman stated after receiving the honor. It’s really amazing to be here and honor women’s football. Young females have heroes and role models. So many individuals from all around the world have worked tirelessly to get the game to where it is now.
“Last summer, the stadiums were full. Wembley was also full, and a lot of families were celebrating football in the stadiums. There is a large crew behind me. You are nothing without excellent players. Last but not least, my family has seen me on TV more than they have at home. Thank you for your help.”