Paula Radcliffe, one of the greatest distance runners of all time and a long-time resident of Monaco, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year Honours list announced by King Charles III…
The distinction recognises not only Radcliffe’s extraordinary athletic career but also her lasting contribution to sport since retiring from elite competition. World-famous for her marathon world record of 2:15:25 — a mark that stood for more than 16 years — Radcliffe remains a prominent voice in athletics through broadcasting, mentoring and advocacy. Now 52, she was previously awarded an MBE during her competitive years and has now been elevated to OBE status for services to sport.
Radcliffe has lived in the Principality for many years and remains closely connected to Monaco’s sporting life. A familiar and respected figure locally, she has taken part in major athletics events in the Principality and, last summer, served as a consultant alongside Frédéric Lon during the Herculis Meeting. She also recently appeared on the Monaco podcast circuit, sharing insights from her career and her life in Monaco with international audiences.
The honour underlines Radcliffe’s enduring influence, both as an athlete and as an ambassador for sport, and places a Monaco resident firmly among those celebrated for shaping British sporting excellence on the world stage.
Image: Athletics Weekly