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Geoff Hurst
Geoff Hurst
Geoff Hurst
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Sir Geoffrey Charles Hurst (born 8 December 1941)[2] is an English former professional footballer. A striker, he became the first player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, as England recorded a 4–2 victory over West Germany at Wembley in 1966. With the death of Sir Bobby Charlton in October 2023, Hurst became the last living player from the team that won the 1966 final.[a]

Key Information

Hurst began his career with West Ham United, where he scored 242 goals in 500 first team appearances. There he won the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965. He was sold to Stoke City in 1972 for £80,000 (equivalent to ￡1.3 million in 2023). After three seasons with Stoke, where he won the Watney Cup in 1973,[5] he finished his Football League career with West Bromwich Albion in 1976. Hurst went to play football in Ireland (Cork Celtic) and the United States (Seattle Sounders), before returning to England to manage non-league Telford United. He also coached in the England set-up before a two-year stint as Chelsea manager from 1979 to 1981. He later coached Kuwait SC, before leaving the game to concentrate on his business commitments.

In total, Hurst scored 24 goals in 49 England appearances, and as well as success in the 1966 World Cup he also appeared at UEFA Euro 1968 and the 1970 FIFA World Cup. He also had a brief cricket career, making one first-class appearance for Essex in 1962, before concentrating on football.

Early life

[edit]

Hurst was born in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, England, on 8 December 1941.[6] He had two younger siblings: Diane and Robert.[6] His family moved to Chelmsford, Essex when he was six years old.[6] His father, Charlie Hurst, was a professional footballer who played at centre-half for Bristol Rovers, Oldham Athletic and Rochdale.[7] His mother, Evelyn Hopkins, was from a Gloucestershire family, with her mother's side originally from Germany.[8] As a teenager he was obsessed with football, and was once fined £1 for disturbing the peace after persistently kicking a football into his neighbour's garden.[9]

Hurst played one first-class cricket match for Essex,[10] against Lancashire at Aigburth in 1962, although it was not a successful outing: he made 0 not out in the first innings, and was bowled by Colin Hilton, again for 0, in the second.[11] However, he appeared 23 times in the Essex Second XI between 1962 and 1964, usually as a wicket-keeper, before concentrating entirely on football.[12]

Under his father's management of the club, Hurst played once for Halstead Town reserves at the age of "about 14".[13]

Club career

[edit]

West Ham United

[edit]

Hurst's football career began when he was apprenticed to West Ham United at the age of 15.[14] He played alongside Bobby Moore in the 1959 FA Youth Cup final team that lost to Blackburn Rovers (1–2 on aggregate), but both were also in the team that won the Southern Junior Floodlit Cup (1–0 v Chelsea) later that year.[15] Manager Ted Fenton first selected him for a senior game in a Southern Floodlit Cup tie with Fulham in December 1958.[16] He turned professional at the club four months later, and was paid £7 a week with a £20 signing-on fee.[16] His first competitive appearance came in February 1960 when injuries forced Fenton's hand; Hurst put in an indifferent performance and the team lost 3–1.[16] He made only two further appearances in the 1959–60 season, and realised that Bobby Moore was making better progress in the same position than he was.[17] He played six times in the 1960–61 campaign and seriously considered turning his main focus to cricket.[17] In April 1961 Ron Greenwood took over as manager, and drastically changed team training by putting a focus on footballing skill rather than physical fitness.[18]

Hurst missed the start of 1961–62 pre-season training due to his cricketing commitments, but went on to make 24 appearances at left-half, and scored his first goal for the club in a 4–2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in December 1961.[19] However, he again missed pre-season training the following summer and was dropped after proving to be unfit during the opening game of the 1962–63 season.[20] In September of that season Greenwood tried playing Hurst as a striker, after deciding that the defensive side of his game was a weakness for the young midfielder.[21] He formed a successful partnership with Johnny Byrne and went on to score 13 goals in 27 First Division games whilst Byrne scored nine in 30 games in the 1962–63 season.[22] In the summer of 1963 he joined the club on their pre-season tour of New York, and greatly benefited from playing against top-quality players from clubs across the world in the International Soccer League, a friendly tournament.[23]

Hurst and West Ham had a poor start to the 1963–64 season, and went on to finish in 14th place. However, it was in the FA Cup where the team impressed. A comfortable 3–0 home win over Second Division Charlton Athletic was followed by another 3–0 home win over East End rivals Leyton Orient – though only following a tough 1–1 draw at Brisbane Road.[24] Greenwood named the same 11 players, including Hurst, in all the club's seven FA Cup fixtures as West Ham progressed to the final. Hurst scored one against Charlton and two against Orient, and claimed another goal in the fifth round as West Ham beat Second Division Swindon Town 3–1 at the County Ground.[25] Burnley provided a stern test in the quarter-finals, but a 3–2 home win took West Ham into the semi-finals, where they faced Manchester United at Hillsborough.[26] West Ham won 3–1, with Hurst scoring the final goal of the game after being set up by Bobby Moore.[27] West Ham faced Second Division Preston North End at Wembley in the 1964 FA Cup Final, and had to come from behind twice to win the match 3–2. Hurst scored his side's second equaliser with a header that bounced under the crossbar and ended up just over the goal line.[28]

The club's success won them a place in the European Cup Winners Cup for the 1964–65 season. They defeated Belgian side K.A.A. Gent in the First Round after an unconvincing 2–1 aggregate victory.[29] Czechoslovakian side AC Sparta Prague awaited in the second round, and West Ham progressed with a 3–2 aggregate victory despite the absence of Moore.[30] Despite beating Swiss team FC Lausanne-Sport 6–4 on aggregate in the quarter-finals, Hurst had still not registered a goal in the competition as he was played in a withdrawn role behind Johnny Byrne so as to strengthen the midfield.[30] In the semi-finals, West Ham defended a 2–1 home win over Spanish club Real Zaragoza with a 1–1 draw at La Romareda to claim a place in the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup Final against TSV 1860 München at Wembley.[31] West Ham won 2–0, Alan Sealey scoring both goals, to give the club their first European trophy.[32]

Having scored 40 goals in 59 competitive games in the 1965–66 season and then gone on to make himself a household name by winning the World Cup with England, Hurst was the subject of a £200,000 (equivalent to ￡4.7 million in 2023) transfer offer by Manchester United manager Matt Busby – the offer was rejected by Greenwood.[33] He was in the West Ham side which lost the League Cup final, 5–3 on aggregate to West Bromwich Albion.[34]

In the 1966–67 season, West Ham demonstrated the inconsistency that would deny them a realistic prospect of winning a league championship under Greenwood. Hurst scored a hat-trick as they defeated full-strength title challengers Leeds United 7–0 in the League Cup, but they exited the FA Cup with a 3–1 defeat to Third Division side Swindon Town.[35]

"When you're playing for a team that can score seven one day and four the next it's really quite good fun. When job satisfaction is that high, why would you want to play for anyone else?"

— Like his manager, Ron Greenwood, Hurst valued entertaining attacking football played in a fair manner and was not prepared to sacrifice these values for silverware.[36]

Hurst scored six goals in a First Division match against Sunderland at Upton Park on 19 October 1968, which West Ham won 8–0.[37] However, he regretted admitting that he handled the ball in his first goal which led to the back page headlines focusing on the illegitimate goal rather than the rare feat of one player scoring six goals in one game.[38]

In 1972, West Ham reached the semi-finals of the League Cup when they played Stoke City over two legs. In the home leg at Upton Park, they were awarded a penalty after Harry Redknapp was fouled in the box.[39] Hurst took the penalty and struck a powerful shot into the top corner which was saved by Gordon Banks, who succeeded in deflecting the ball over the bar.[39] Stoke won the tie in the subsequent replay and denied Hurst one more final appearance at Wembley.[40]

Stoke City

[edit]

Hurst was sold to Stoke City for a £80,000 fee in August 1972.[41][42] He was struck down with pneumonia early in 1973 and went to South Africa to recover, playing on loan for Roy Bailey's Cape Town City.[43] He missed just four games for Stoke and upon his return he helped the side to maintain their First Division status.[44]

In January 1974, "Potters" manager Tony Waddington asked Hurst to take in new signing Alan Hudson as a lodger so as to provide the talented but troubled midfielder with a stable home during his Stoke career.[45] Hudson adapted well to life in the Hurst household and Stoke recorded a fifth place in the 1973–74 season – a career high for Hurst.[46]

Hurst scored 11 goals in 41 games in the 1974–75 season and helped Stoke to finish in fifth place, just four points behind champions Derby County.[47]

West Bromwich Albion

[edit]

Hurst was sold to Johnny Giles's West Bromwich Albion in the summer of 1975 for a fee of £20,000.[42] He played 12 times for the Baggies at the start of the 1975–76 season, scoring twice, before deciding to leave for America.[42] Hurst later acknowledged that at the age of 34 he was too old to lead the line in the "Baggies" push for promotion out of the Second Division.[48]

Later career

[edit]

Hurst signed for Cork Celtic in January 1976, and remained in Ireland for one month.[49][50]

He signed for the Seattle Sounders of the NASL in 1976. Hurst rapidly proved his worth, and became a valuable member of the Sounders team. He was the team's second-leading scorer, helping the Sounders make it to the play-offs for the first time in their brief history, with eight goals and four assists in 23 regular season games, and one goal in the play-offs.[51][52]

International career

[edit]

1966 World Cup

[edit]

Hurst made his senior England debut against West Germany on 23 February 1966.[53] He played well, and further performances against Scotland and Yugoslavia secured him a place in the squad for the 1966 FIFA World Cup.[54] However, he put in mediocre performances in warm-up games against Finland and Denmark, and so Jimmy Greaves and Roger Hunt were instead picked for the final friendly game against Poland.[55] Greaves and Hunt were picked for the three group games against Uruguay, Mexico and France, but in the latter game, Greaves suffered a deep gash to his leg which required stitches, and Hurst was called up to take his place in the quarter-final against Argentina.[55]

Argentina were talented but preferred a tougher approach to the game, which saw them reduced to ten men.[56] The game was still tightly contested as it entered its final 15 minutes, before Martin Peters swung over a curling cross from the left flank and Hurst, anticipating his clubmate's action, got in front of his marker to glance a near post header past the Argentine keeper.[57] England won 1–0 and were in the semi-finals.[58]

Greaves was not fit for the game against Portugal so Hurst and Hunt continued up front, and England won 2–1 thanks to two goals by Bobby Charlton, the second of which was set up by Hurst.[59] As the final against the Germans approached, the media learnt of Greaves' return to fitness and, while appreciating Hurst's contribution, started to call for the return of England's most prolific centre forward. Ramsey, however, would not be swayed and selected Hurst for the final.[60]

World Cup Final

[edit]
Hurst heading for England's first goal at the 1966 World Cup final

West Germany took the lead through Helmut Haller early on, but six minutes later Bobby Moore was fouled just inside the German half of the field. He quickly picked himself up and delivered the free kick to Hurst, who eluded his marker Horst-Dieter Höttges and headed the ball past goalkeeper Hans Tilkowski to level the scores at 1–1.[61]

With 12 minutes left to play of normal time, an Alan Ball corner left Hurst with a shooting opportunity on the edge of the penalty area; his shot deflected off Wolfgang Weber and fell kindly to Martin Peters, who put the ball into the net to give England the lead.[62] However the Germans scored a very late goal through Weber to level the match at 2–2 at full-time.[63]

In the first period of extra-time, Ball crossed from the right to Hurst, who struck a strong shot towards goal with his right foot, falling backwards as he did so.[64] The ball beat the goalkeeper, hit the crossbar and bounced down before Weber headed it out for a corner. England's players claimed a goal while the Germans were adamant that the ball had not fully crossed the line.[64] Referee Gottfried Dienst consulted his linesman on the right flank, Tofiq Bahramov, who signalled that the ball had crossed the line, and the goal was given.[64] The so-called Wembley Goal remained a subject for controversy and discussions.

The Germans pushed forward in search of an equaliser as the full-time whistle approached, and Bobby Moore exploited their advanced position to send Hurst a long ball in the German half of the pitch.[65] Hurst reached the German penalty box and scored to end the game at 4–2 to England.[66] As Hurst collected the pass, BBC commentator Kenneth Wolstenholme delivered with one of the most famous pieces of football commentary:

And here comes Hurst, he's got ... [notices invaders] ... some people are on the pitch, they think it's all over! [Hurst shoots and scores] ... It is now! It's four![67]

Hurst thus became the first player to score a hat-trick in the Men's World Cup final, a feat that remained unmatched until 2022, when Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick for France against Argentina. As France lost on penalties afterwards, he remains the only man to score a hattrick in a World Cup Final and win the match.

Later international career

[edit]
Hurst's trading card from the Mexico 70 series issued by Panini

Hurst was selected for UEFA Euro 1968, but did not play as England lost 1–0 to Yugoslavia in the semi-final. He did play, and score, in the 2–0 third-place play-off victory over the Soviet Union at the Stadio Olimpico.[68]

Hurst scored his second international hat-trick on 12 March 1969, in a 5–0 victory over France, and was named in the Ramsey squad which played in Mexico to defend the World Cup in 1970.[69] He scored the only goal of England's opening game against Romania after being sent through by a pass from Francis Lee.[70] England progressed to the quarter-finals, where once again they faced West Germany. Hurst played a part in the Martin Peters goal that put England 2–0 up. With England up 2–1, Hurst's contested header trickled inches past the post. Later, at 2–2, Hurst had what many thought was a legitimate goal ruled out for offside.[71] The West Germans scored in extra time and won 3–2.[72]

Hurst scored against Greece and Switzerland in qualification for UEFA Euro 1972, but played his last international match on 29 April 1972 as England were beaten 3–1 by West Germany – he was replaced by Rodney Marsh with 20 minutes left to play and did not take to the field in an England shirt again.[73] He was named in the squad for the second leg against West Germany after Allan Clarke and Francis Lee picked up injuries, but had to pull out of the squad after picking up an injury himself.[74]

Managerial career

[edit]

Upon his retirement from playing, Hurst moved into management and coaching. He spent three years as player-manager of Telford United in the Southern League before being recruited by Ron Greenwood in the England coaching set up in 1977.[75] He travelled with England to help Greenwood at UEFA Euro 1980 and the 1982 FIFA World Cup, where England failed to make it past the group stages on both occasions.[76][77]

Chelsea

[edit]

Hurst joined Chelsea, then in the Second Division, before the 1979–80 season, initially as assistant manager to Danny Blanchflower.[78] When Blanchflower was sacked, Hurst was appointed manager.[79] He hired Bobby Gould as his assistant.[80] Things initially went well, and for much of the season Chelsea were on course for promotion, but two wins from their final seven league games ensured the club finished fourth; missing out on third place and promotion on goal difference. He raised £250,000 through the sales of Eamonn Bannon, David Stride and Trevor Aylott.[81] He then spent £300,000 on Colin Lee, Dennis Rofe and Colin Viljoen; he later acknowledged Viljoen as a mistake whilst bemoaning Lee's bad luck with injury.[82]

The following season again began well, with the "Blues" among the early promotion pace-setters before a dismal run set in, with Chelsea winning just three of their final 23 league matches, culminating in Hurst being sacked and Chelsea finished 12th in the league.[83]

Kuwait SC

[edit]

After being sacked from Chelsea on 23 April 1981, Hurst worked as an insurance salesman for Abbey Life.[84] The next year he was tempted back into management after being offered a generous salary by Kuwait SC.[85] He controversially disciplined and dropped club captain Saad Al-Houti, but was unable to challenge Dave Mackay's Al-Arabi for dominance of the Kuwaiti Premier League.[86] After leaving Kuwait in April 1984 he returned to the insurance trade.[87]

Legacy

[edit]
World Cup Sculpture – Hurst second from left
A model shirt bearing Hurst's name at the London Stadium

In 2003 Hurst was included in The Champions, a statue of 1966 World Cup winning footballers, by sculptor Philip Jackson. It sits at the junctions of Barking Road and Central Park Road, Newham, London, near to the site of West Ham United's former home stadium, the Boleyn Ground and features Martin Peters, Hurst, Bobby Moore and Ray Wilson.[88]

Hurst's contribution to the English game was recognised in 2004 when he was inducted in the English Football Hall of Fame. Hurst is also one of the few footballers who have been knighted.[89][90]

A statue of Hurst was unveiled outside Curzon Ashton F.C.'s ground in 2010. He is shown alongside two other World Cup winners born in the area, fellow 1966 squad member Jimmy Armfield, and Simone Perrotta, who won it with Italy in 2006.[91]

In 2021, West Ham unveiled a statue outside their home ground, the London Stadium depicting Hurst with Bobby Moore and Martin Peters in tribute to the three and West Ham's 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup final victory.[92]

Following the death of Sir Bobby Charlton in October 2023, Hurst was left as the last surviving English player who played in the 1966 World Cup Final.[93]

Personal life

[edit]

As of 2021, Hurst lived in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire,[94] with his wife Judith. They have been married since 13 October 1964, having met three years previously at a youth centre; Eddie Presland was best man.[95] They had three daughters but the eldest Claire died in 2010 after a ten-year long battle against a brain tumour.[96][97][98][99] Hurst had one brother, Robert, who died by suicide in 1974.[100]

In November 2020, Hurst offered to donate his brain after his death for research into dementia. This followed the deaths of several of his 1966 World Cup winning colleagues, Jack Charlton, Martin Peters, Ray Wilson, Nobby Stiles after suffering with the disease (also Bobby Charlton who died later).[101][102]

While playing for Stoke City F.C. Hurst owned the Royal Oak Inn, Eccleshall.[103]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[104][105]
Club Season League FA Cup League Cup Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
West Ham United 1959–60 First Division 3 0 0 0 0 0 — 3 0
1960–61 First Division 6 0 0 0 0 0 — 6 0
1961–62 First Division 24 1 1 0 2 0 — 27 1
1962–63 First Division 27 13 0 0 2 2 — 29 15
1963–64 First Division 37 14 7 7 6 5 — 50 26
1964–65 First Division 42 17 1 2 1 0 10[b] 1 54 20
1965–66 First Division 39 23 4 4 10 11 6[c] 2 59 40
1966–67 First Division 41 29 2 3 6 9 — 49 41
1967–68 First Division 38 19 3 1 3 5 — 44 25
1968–69 First Division 42 25 3 2 3 4 — 48 31
1969–70 First Division 39 16 1 0 2 2 — 42 18
1970–71 First Division 39 15 0 0 2 0 — 41 15
1971–72 First Division 34 8 4 4 10 4 — 48 16
Total 411 180 26 23 47 42 16 3 500 248
Stoke City 1971–72 First Division 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
1972–73 First Division 38 10 0 0 3 2 2[d] 1 43 13
1973–74 First Division 35 12 1 0 4 1 5[e] 2 45 15
1974–75 First Division 35 8 1 0 4 3 1[d] 0 38 8
Total 108 30 3 0 11 6 8 3 130 39
Cape Town City (loan) 1972–73 NFL 6 5 0 0 0 0 — 6 5
West Bromwich Albion 1975–76 Second Division 10 2 0 0 2 0 — 12 2
Cork Celtic 1975–76 League of Ireland 3 3 0 0 — — 3 3
Seattle Sounders 1976 NASL 23 8 — — — 23 8
Career total 561 228 29 23 60 48 24 6 674 299
  1. ^ Terry Paine and Ian Callaghan are alive but didn't play the final.
  2. ^ Nine appearances and goal in European Cup Winner's Cup and one appearance in Charity Shield
  3. ^ Appearances in European Cup Winner's Cup
  4. ^ a b Appearances in UEFA Cup
  5. ^ Two appearances in the Texaco Cup and three appearances and two goals in Watney Cup

International

[edit]
Appearances and goals by national team and year[106]
National team Year Apps Goals
England 1966 11 7
1967 6 2
1968 6 2
1969 8 7
1970 11 3
1971 6 3
1972 1 0
Total 49 24
Scores and results list England's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Hurst goal.
List of international goals scored by Geoff Hurst[107][108][109]
No. Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1 2 April 1966 Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland  Scotland 1–0 4–3 1965–66 British Home Championship
2 23 July 1966 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Argentina 1–0 1–0 1966 FIFA World Cup
3 30 July 1966 Wembley Stadium, London, England  West Germany 1–1 4–2 (a.e.t) 1966 FIFA World Cup Final
4 3–2
5 4–2
6 16 November 1966 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Wales 1–0 5–1 1966–67 British Home Championship
7 2–0
8 15 April 1967 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Scotland 2–3 2–3 1966–67 British Home Championship
9 22 November 1967 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Northern Ireland 1–0 2–0 1967–68 British Home Championship
10 8 June 1968 Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy  Soviet Union 2–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1968
11 11 December 1968 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Bulgaria 1–1 1–1 Friendly
12 12 March 1969 Wembley Stadium, London, England  France 2–0 5–0 Friendly
13 3–0
14 5–0
15 3 May 1969 Windsor Park, Belfast, Northern Ireland  Northern Ireland 3–1 3–1 1968–69 British Home Championship
16 10 May 1969 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Scotland 2–0 4–1 1968–69 British Home Championship
17 3–1
18 8 June 1969 Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay  Uruguay 2–1 2–1 Friendly
19 25 February 1970 Constant Vanden Stock Stadium, Brussels, Belgium  Belgium 2–0 3–1 Friendly
20 21 April 1970 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Northern Ireland 2–1 3–1 1969–70 British Home Championship
21 2 June 1970 Estadio Jalisco, Guadalajara, Mexico  Romania 1–0 1–0 1970 FIFA World Cup
22 21 April 1971 Wembley Stadium, London, England  Greece 2–0 3–0 UEFA Euro 1972 qualification
23 13 October 1971 St. Jakob-Park, Basel, Switzerland   Switzerland 1–0 3–2 UEFA Euro 1972 qualification
24 1 December 1971 Karaiskakis Stadium, Athens, Greece  Greece 1–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1972 qualification

Managerial statistics

[edit]
Managerial record by team and tenure
Team From To Record
P W D L Win %
Chelsea[110] 13 September 1979 23 April 1981 84 35 20 29 041.7
Total 84 35 20 29 041.7

Honours

[edit]

West Ham

England

Individual

Orders

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]

Bibliography

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Geoff Hurst

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sir Geoff Hurst is an English former footballer, renowned as a striker who became the first and only player to score a in a Final, securing England's 4–2 victory over on 30 July 1966 at . Born Geoffrey Charles Hurst on 8 December 1941 in , , to parents Charlie and Evelyn Hurst, he moved to , , in 1949 and developed his skills at Kings Road Primary School, excelling in both football and before joining United as a at age 17 in 1958. Hurst's club career spanned primarily with West Ham United from 1958 to 1972, where he made 499 appearances and scored 248 goals after transitioning from midfielder to forward under manager ; during this period, he helped the team win the in 1964 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965, notably scoring 40 goals in the 1965–66 season alone. He later played for Stoke City from 1972 to 1975, achieving two fifth-place finishes in the First Division, followed by a season with West Bromwich Albion in the Second Division in 1975–76, before brief stints with Cork Celtic in Ireland and Seattle Sounders in the North American Soccer League, retiring in 1976. Internationally, Hurst earned 49 caps for between 1966 and 1972, scoring 24 goals as the first-choice striker under manager , with his heroics defining his legacy as a key figure in the "wingless wonders" tactical system. After retiring, Hurst transitioned into management, serving as player-manager at Telford United from 1976 to 1979 and managing Chelsea from 1979 to 1981 (succeeding his former West Ham manager ), before working in the insurance industry until 2002. Knighted in 1998 for services to football and inducted into the in 2004, he married Judith Harries on 13 October 1964 at , with whom he has three daughters: Clare, Joanne, and Charlotte; as of 2025, Hurst is the last surviving member of the World Cup-winning team and remains an iconic for English football, frequently reflecting on the triumph in public appearances and media.

Early life

Family background

Geoffrey Charles Hurst was born on 8 December 1941 in , , , during the height of . He was the eldest child of Charlie Hurst, a footballer who played as a centre-half for clubs such as Bristol Rovers, Oldham Athletic, and , and Evelyn Hurst (née Blick), who managed the household. Charlie's playing career was interrupted by wartime service in the , including evacuation from in 1940, after which he transitioned to other work to support the family in post-war austerity. Hurst had two younger siblings: a brother, , and a sister, Diane. The family lived in for Hurst's first eight years, a period marked by the challenges of rationing and rebuilding in industrial following the war's end. In 1949, they relocated to , , seeking better opportunities in the burgeoning post-war economy of southeast England. Growing up in this environment, Hurst was exposed to football from an early age through local parks and his father's influence, who spent hours coaching him in the garden, particularly on using his left foot—a skill that later defined his playing style. This family encouragement, rooted in Charlie's own experiences as a professional player before and after the war, fostered Hurst's initial passion for the amid the communal games common in 1940s and 1950s Britain.

Youth career and early influences

Hurst's entry into organized football began during his school years in , where he played for local teams and represented at youth levels, though he was not selected for schoolboy internationals. At around age 15, a family friend's letter prompted trials at and West Ham United, but only West Ham responded with an invitation. His first trial at in 1957 ended unsuccessfully when he arrived late after getting lost on the London Underground, a mishap attributed to his rural background. Offered a second opportunity, Hurst impressed scout Ted Fenton during the session, despite an incident where he passed the ball back to his —leading to an injury—and was instead signed on as ground staff before becoming an apprentice in 1958 at age 16. Initially positioned as a right-half in midfield, Hurst's strong running and technical ability caught the eye of manager , who later repositioned him as a centre-forward to capitalize on his goal-scoring potential. Alongside football, Hurst pursued seriously during his formative years, playing as a wicketkeeper for 's Second XI in matches including appearances in 1962 and 1964, where he honed skills that briefly tempted him toward a professional career in the . He made his Second XI debut against at Orsett, scoring 20 runs, and went on to feature in 23 games overall, even captaining Essex schools alongside future teammate . This dual- involvement underscored Hurst's versatility but ultimately reinforced his commitment to football after Greenwood's intervention.

Club career

West Ham United

Hurst joined West Ham United as an apprentice in 1958 at the age of 16, making his first-team debut later that year in a Southern Floodlit Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur on 13 December, where he played as a . His league debut came during the 1959–60 season, appearing in three First Division matches without scoring. Over the course of his time at the club from 1958 to 1972, Hurst made 411 league appearances and scored 180 goals, establishing himself as one of West Ham's most prolific forwards. Including cup competitions, his totals reached 499 appearances and 248 goals. Under manager , who took charge in 1961, Hurst transitioned from a defensive or wing-half role to a central striker, a positional change that unlocked his goalscoring potential and transformed his career. Greenwood's tactical vision emphasized fluid, attacking play, and Hurst's powerful shooting, aerial ability, and positioning became integral to this style, helping to define West Ham's ethos of entertaining, expansive football during the mid-1960s. His consistent scoring—peaking at 40 goals across all competitions in the 1965–66 season—earned him selection for the national team ahead of the . Hurst's breakthrough came in the 1963–64 campaign, where he scored crucial goals en route to the final, including the equalizer in 's 3–1 semi-final victory over Swansea Town. In the final at on 2 May 1964, trailed Preston North End 2–1 until the 52nd minute, when Hurst headed in a cross from Peter Brabrook to level the score at 2–2; Ronnie Boyce's 90th-minute winner secured a 3–2 triumph and 's first major trophy. The following season, Hurst played a pivotal role in 's 1964–65 European Cup Winners' Cup triumph, scoring eight goals across the competition, including the opening goal in the 2–0 final win over 1860 Munich on 19 May 1965 at . In the subsequent 1965–66 edition, reached the semi-finals against , losing 1–2 at home on 5 April 1966 and 1–3 away on 13 April, as advanced 5–2 on aggregate. These performances exemplified Hurst's importance in 's push for sustained success on both domestic and European stages.

Stoke City

In August 1972, Geoff Hurst transferred from United to Stoke City for a fee of £80,000, joining manager Tony Waddington's squad as a high-profile addition to bolster the attack. Over the next three seasons, Hurst made 108 appearances and scored 30 goals for Stoke, contributing to solid mid-table finishes in the First Division, including fifth place in 1973–74 and 1974–75. His arrival helped elevate the team's profile, though his goal-scoring rate of approximately one every 3.6 games marked a decline from his prolific years, partly attributed to the physical demands of the league and lingering effects from post-1966 fatigue. One highlight was Stoke's victory in the 1973 , a pre-season knock-out for high-scoring teams from the previous campaign. Hurst scored the equalizing in the semi-final against Bristol City, helping secure a 4–1 win, before Stoke defeated Hull City 2–0 in the final at the , with Hurst playing a key role in the forward line alongside John Ritchie. Under Waddington, who favored a direct, physical style inspired by Stoke's industrial heritage but infused with skillful elements from new signings like , Hurst adapted by focusing on hold-up play and link-up with midfielders such as , though he occasionally struggled with the robust defending prevalent in the Midlands. Hurst faced challenges with health during his time at Stoke, including a bout of pneumonia in early 1973 that sidelined him and prompted a loan spell to City in for recovery, during which he scored prolifically but returned to a dip in domestic form. Despite this, he remained a popular figure among fans at the , where his World Cup pedigree drew strong support and boosted attendance, fostering positive team dynamics in a squad blending experience with emerging talents under Waddington's leadership.

West Bromwich Albion

In the summer of 1975, Hurst transferred from Stoke City to West Bromwich Albion for a fee of £20,000, signing under player-manager who had recently taken charge at . Hurst made 12 appearances and scored 2 goals during the 1975–76 Second Division season, with his final goal coming in a 1–1 draw against Charlton Athletic in September 1975. At age 33, Hurst's playing time was restricted amid competition from younger forwards, resulting in a brief stint that represented the conclusion of his career. Following limited opportunities under Giles, Hurst opted to pursue playing prospects overseas later that year.

Later playing career

After leaving West Bromwich Albion, Hurst joined Cork Celtic in the in January 1976 as a player, serving a brief one-month stint that saw him make three appearances and score three goals. This short spell, which included a goal in a local derby draw against Cork Hibernians, was intended to boost the club's profile following their 1974 title win, though Hurst's time there was limited by his subsequent move abroad. In 1976, Hurst signed with the Seattle Sounders in the North American Soccer League (NASL), where he played 23 games and scored eight goals, contributing to the team's playoff qualification as their second-leading scorer. His performances in the NASL provided a fresh challenge overseas, helping the Sounders achieve a strong season with 40 goals scored overall. Returning to later in 1976, Hurst took on a player-manager role at non-league side Telford United, where he remained until 1979, combining playing duties with managerial responsibilities in the Southern League. Specific appearance and goal tallies for this period are not comprehensively recorded, but it marked his continued involvement in lower-tier football as he wound down his playing days. Hurst retired from playing in July 1979 at the age of 37, transitioning fully into management at Telford United. Across his later career outside England's top flight, including spells at Cork Celtic, Seattle Sounders, and Telford United (excluding his earlier loan at City), he made approximately 29 appearances and scored 11 goals, reflecting a scaled-back but impactful presence in lower leagues and abroad.

International career

1966 FIFA World Cup

Geoff Hurst was included in Alf Ramsey's 22-man squad for the , selected as a forward option behind established striker based on his strong club form with West Ham United. Hurst did not feature in the group stage, where England advanced unbeaten with draws against and wins over and , but he entered the lineup for the knockout rounds after Greaves suffered a groin injury during the 2-0 victory over on 16 July. In the quarter-final against on 23 July at , Hurst scored the only goal of the match in the 78th minute, heading in a cross from to secure a 1-0 win and propel into the semi-finals. Three days later, in the semi-final versus , Hurst provided the assist for Bobby Charlton's second goal in the 80th minute, helping to a 2-1 despite a late consolation from ; the result advanced Ramsey's side to the final undefeated. The World Cup final took place on 30 July 1966 at Wembley Stadium before a crowd of 96,924, pitting England against West Germany in a match that would define Hurst's career. West Germany struck first through Helmut Haller in the 12th minute, but Hurst equalized six minutes later with a powerful shot from the edge of the box following a corner. The score remained 1-1 at halftime, and after the break, Martin Peters put England ahead 2-1 in the 78th minute. However, Wolfgang Weber leveled it at 2-2 in the 89th minute, forcing extra time. In the 101st minute of extra time, Hurst scored his controversial second goal: a shot from 25 yards that struck the underside of the crossbar, bounced down near or possibly over the goal line, and was ruled valid by Soviet linesman Tofiq Bahramov after consultation with referee Gottfried Dienst, giving England a 3-2 lead. Hurst completed his hat-trick—and England's victory at 4-2—in the final minute of extra time, blasting a half-volley into the net after a pass from Peters, becoming the first and only player to score three goals in a World Cup final. Ramsey's preparation emphasized discipline and unity, with the squad basing at National Sports Centre in from early June for intensive training on two full-sized pitches, supplemented by recreational activities like , , and to maintain . Dietary instructions included ample , fresh fruit, and high-quality meals chosen by players, while shared accommodations—such as Hurst rooming with teammates—fostered camaraderie, which Hurst later described as a "close-knit" group evident in spontaneous moments like hoisting captain on the pitch. Hurst's personal approach focused on hard work and a positive attitude, traits Ramsey prized, helping him adapt quickly from squad reserve to key starter. In the immediate aftermath, celebrations erupted across Britain, likened to VE Day, with thousands mobbing the players at their hotel and crowds halting traffic in 's West End, , and amid singing and dancing into the night. The team received an open-top bus parade through the following day, drawing massive crowds, while public discourse quickly turned to honors, with widespread calls for knighthoods for Ramsey and recognition for the squad, including Hurst, though formal awards like MBEs followed in subsequent years.

Other international appearances

Hurst earned his first cap for England on 23 February 1966, in a 1–0 friendly victory over at , where he started but did not score. His international career spanned from 1966 to 1972, during which he made 49 appearances and scored 24 goals. Prior to the 1966 World Cup, he featured in three matches, including a 4–3 win against on 2 April 1966 at , where he netted his debut goal in a thrilling encounter. Following the triumph, which solidified his place in the national team, Hurst continued as a key forward in subsequent campaigns. In the qualifiers for the 1968 , he appeared in seven matches, scoring four goals, helping secure qualification for the finals in . At the tournament itself, reached the semi-finals but lost 1–0 to ; Hurst then scored in the 2–0 third-place playoff victory over the on 8 June 1968, finishing the competition with one goal in two appearances. Hurst represented England at the in , starting in all four matches as the team advanced to the quarter-finals before a 3–2 extra-time defeat to . He scored once during the tournament, netting the winner in a 1–0 group-stage victory over on 2 1970 at Jalisco Stadium. His final international appearance came on 29 April 1972, a 3–0 home loss to in the quarter-final second leg, after which he retired from international duty at age 30. Across his England career outside major tournaments, Hurst's goals were distributed as follows: 11 in 31 friendlies and 5 in 6 matches. In qualifiers, he contributed 7 goals in 11 games, underscoring his role in building on the momentum from 1966.

Managerial career

Telford United

In 1976, following the end of his professional playing career, Geoff Hurst was appointed player-manager of non-league club Telford United in the Southern League Premier Division, marking his entry into management at the age of 34. This role required him to balance on-field contributions with coaching responsibilities, leveraging his fame from the 1966 to boost attendance; for instance, a league match against Worcester City on 12 September 1977 drew a crowd of 2,058 spectators, significantly higher than typical for the level. Hurst's first season in 1976–77 proved challenging, with finishing 19th in the 42-team division after 11 wins, 12 draws, and 19 losses, narrowly avoiding relegation with 34 points from 42 games. The team showed marked improvement in 1977–78, securing 9th place with 17 wins, 11 draws, and 14 losses for 45 points, reflecting better organization amid the demands of , including limited budgets and part-time players. Under Hurst's guidance, continued to progress in 1978–79, achieving a strong 3rd-place finish with 22 wins, 10 draws, and 10 losses, amassing 54 points and scoring 60 goals while conceding 39. This third-place standing qualified Telford as one of the founder members of the newly formed Alliance Premier League for the 1979–80 season, representing a significant elevation in the English football pyramid. Over his three seasons, Hurst oversaw 50 wins in 126 league matches, a win rate of approximately 40%, with notable performances including a 4–1 friendly victory by a winners' select team (featuring Hurst) against in 1976, which highlighted his ongoing playing involvement. Hurst departed in June 1979, having balanced his role there with assistant coaching duties for the national team since 1977 under , to take up a coaching position at Chelsea. His tenure underscored the rigors of non-league management, where he navigated resource constraints and the dual demands of playing into his late 30s while building a competitive squad.

Chelsea

Geoff Hurst was appointed as Chelsea manager on 13 September 1979, succeeding who had been dismissed after a poor start to the Second Division season; this role overlapped with his ongoing assistant coaching position with the England national team until 1982. This marked Hurst's transition from a player-manager role at non-league United to handling a high-profile club amid financial and performance turbulence. Over his tenure, which lasted until April 1981, he oversaw 84 matches, achieving 35 wins, 20 draws, and 29 losses, for a win percentage of approximately 42%. In the 1979–80 season, Hurst guided Chelsea to a strong promotion push, finishing fourth in the Second Division with 21 wins from 42 league games. The campaign culminated in dramatic fashion on the final day, as a 3–0 home victory over Preston North End—featuring goals from Clive Walker, Mike Fillery, and —was not enough for promotion, with Swansea City securing the second automatic spot via their own win. Key reinforcements under Hurst included forward from Tottenham Hotspur in January 1980 and full-back Dennis Rofe from Bristol Rovers the following month, bolstering the squad's attacking options and contributing to a total of 71 league goals scored that season. The 1980–81 season saw a more inconsistent performance, with Chelsea ending 12th in the Second Division after 14 wins, 12 draws, and 16 losses in league play. A barren run toward the end, including failing to score in 19 of the last 22 games across all competitions, drew national attention and highlighted tensions within the squad. Hurst was sacked on 23 April 1981 during a 0–2 defeat to Notts County, replaced by John Neal as the club navigated ongoing boardroom instability under chairman Brian Mears. Hurst's time at Chelsea underscored the challenges of managing a historic club under pressure, where he later reflected on the intense scrutiny and the difficulty of rebuilding amid limited resources and high expectations. Despite the lack of promotion, his emphasis on forward-thinking play and bold transfer ambitions—such as attempts to sign stars like and —left a mark on the club's recovery trajectory.

Kuwait SC

In 1982, Geoff Hurst joined Kuwait Sporting Club as coach, marking his only foray into international management following his experiences in English football. He signed a two-year contract, attracted primarily by the financial security of tax-free earnings after a challenging period at Chelsea, though he initially hesitated, having mentally prepared to exit coaching altogether. The role spanned from July 1982 until April 1984, during which Hurst aimed to instill English training methods, emphasizing professionalism, punctuality, and physical robustness to complement the players' technical skills. Hurst encountered significant cultural adaptation challenges in Kuwait, where he respected the local emphasis on maintaining face and avoiding public concessions on decisions. A notable incident involved disciplining a senior player for tardiness, which risked confrontation but ultimately reinforced team discipline without contractual repercussions. The contract included a three-month off-season break, providing some relief, but the overall environment demanded adjustments to Arab customs and the players' more relaxed approach to training. Despite these hurdles, Hurst noted the squad's technical giftedness and introduced aggressive physical play to elevate their competitiveness. The stint yielded limited success in the Kuwaiti league, with no major trophies secured. His impact on local players focused on building discipline and physicality, fostering a more professional ethos that left a modest but positive legacy in Gulf football, as evidenced by the club's improved standards during his tenure. Hurst departed in after declining an offer for a third season, opting to return to and prioritize business ventures over further coaching.

Post-retirement activities

Business ventures and media work

After retiring from football management in , Hurst entered the insurance industry, beginning as an administrator of warranties at Motorplan. In the , Motorplan was acquired by Holdings, an Aon subsidiary, where Hurst served as a director and consultant. Holdings was later purchased by the Aon Group, the world's second-largest , and Hurst advanced to managing director of its Domestic Appliance Division, a role he held for much of his 18-year tenure in the sector before retiring in 2002. In 2002, Hurst was appointed Director of Football for McDonald's Grassroots Football program in the UK, a promotional initiative to support youth coaching and community events. He oversaw the provision of free coaching sessions, contributing to the training of over 20,000 coaches and supporting more than 1 million young players through annual events and quality assurance efforts. This role leveraged his football legacy to promote accessible participation, with Hurst attending over 30 events yearly as an ambassador. Hurst has maintained a media presence through television punditry, appearing on and ITV broadcasts during major tournaments, including as a for the BBC's coverage of the Euro 2020 final. He published his , 1966 and All That: My Autobiography, in 2001, which details his career and post-football life. Hurst has also featured in documentaries such as Hurst: The First and Only (2022), a Original exploring his achievements and personal story. These ventures, alongside earnings from his playing and managerial career, enabled Hurst to achieve , though he faced setbacks like a £600,000 loss from a failed Spanish in the early .

Speaking tours and philanthropy

Since the early , Sir Geoff Hurst has conducted annual speaking tours across the , where he shares personal anecdotes from his football career, particularly the 1966 World Cup victory. These engagements, often organized through agencies like A1 Sporting Speakers, feature audience interactions and have become a staple for football enthusiasts seeking insights into England's historic triumph. In 2025, Hurst embarked on his "Last Man Standing" farewell tour, marking his final series of public appearances as the sole surviving member of the 1966 World Cup-winning team following the deaths of teammates like Bobby Charlton in 2023. The tour, spanning venues such as the Rose Theatre in Kingston and the Weymouth Pavilion, includes Q&A sessions and charity auctions, with dates running through early 2026. Hurst has been a prominent for the , participating in charity auctions and Q&A events during his tours to raise funds for and support. In 2020, he pledged to donate his to upon his death to aid studies on footballer , motivated by the condition's impact on several 1966 teammates. This commitment extended into 2025, with Hurst giving interviews on discussing the prevalence of among former players and calling for greater awareness. In philanthropy, Hurst partnered with in 2022 to offer free meals and drinks to pensioners aged 66 and over during the , targeting those who were at least 10 years old during England's win as a of appreciation. He has also supported United's charitable foundations, including events tied to the club's 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup legacy, such as the 2021 statue unveiling honoring his contributions. Throughout 2025, Hurst made several appearances commenting on the modern team, praising their potential while critiquing aspects like managerial decisions under and the conduct of players' families. These discussions often linked back to his experiences, emphasizing teamwork from the era as a benchmark for contemporary success.

Legacy

Awards and honors

Hurst was appointed Member of the (MBE) in 1975 for his services to football. He received a knighthood in the 1998 Queen's Birthday Honours, becoming Sir Geoff Hurst in recognition of his contributions to the sport over three decades. His performance in the earned him the Winner's Medal as part of England's victorious squad. That same year, following his in the final and his prolific season with West Ham United, he was voted the club's Hammer of the Year. Hurst also placed third in the Sports Personality of the Year award for 1966, behind winner and speedway rider . In 1998, Hurst received the Football Writers' Association (FWA) Tribute Award for his lifetime achievements in football. He was inducted into the in 2004, honoring his role in England's 1966 triumph and his club career. Further recognition came in 1999 with an honorary Doctor of the University degree from , acknowledging his impact on sport and society. In 2021, a bronze statue depicting Hurst, , and in a celebratory pose from the 1966 World Cup—capturing elements of his hat-trick heroics—was unveiled at United's as part of the club's 125th anniversary celebrations. In May 2025, a new in , —Sir Geoff Hurst Community Primary School—was named in his honor.

Cultural and historical impact

Geoff Hurst's in the against cemented his iconic status as the only player in history to achieve this feat in a World Cup final. His third goal, struck in the 101st minute of extra time, sparked enduring debate over whether the ball fully crossed the goal line after rebounding off the crossbar, with analyses continuing to divide opinions even decades later. This moment not only secured England's 4-2 victory but also became a symbol of triumph in football lore, frequently revisited in discussions of the sport's most controversial decisions. Hurst's contribution to the triumph intertwined with England's broader cultural narrative during the , an era of post-war optimism, , and shifting amid . The win, hosted on home soil, boosted a sense of renewed British pride and unity, with Hurst's performance embodying the era's vibrant, forward-looking spirit. It helped elevate football as a national unifier, reflecting and reinforcing England's evolving self-image in a time of social and economic transformation. Hurst's legacy extends into popular culture through his cameo appearance alongside Pelé and Bobby Moore in the 1981 film Escape to Victory, a wartime drama that dramatized football's allure and drew on the stars' real-life fame to enhance its narrative. He has also featured prominently in books and documentaries exploring the 1966 victory, including his autobiography 1966 and All That, which details the event's personal and collective significance, and the 2022 feature documentary Hurst: The First & Only (with DVD/Blu-ray release in 2023), which examines his life and the triumph's lasting resonance. These works have perpetuated his story, blending sporting heroism with cultural reflection on England's golden moment. Hurst's progression from United's youth system to stardom highlighted the value of structured academy development, inspiring subsequent emphases on nurturing young strikers through focused training on finishing, positioning, and physical conditioning. His powerful shooting technique and aerial prowess, honed under manager Ron Greenwood's innovative methods at , influenced striker methodologies that prioritized explosive power and tactical awareness in youth programs across . Following the death of in October 2023, Hurst became the sole surviving member of the in the 1966 World Cup final. As of 2025, he is one of three surviving members of the full squad, alongside and . This status has intensified historical retrospectives and media focus on the event's legacy.

Personal life

Family and residences

Geoff Hurst married Judith Harries on 13 October 1964 at , having met her during his school years in . The couple has enjoyed a stable marriage spanning over six decades, marked by mutual support through Hurst's professional transitions. They had three daughters: Claire (the eldest, who died from a brain tumour in 2010), Joanne, and Charlotte. Hurst has often described his family as his proudest achievement, crediting Judith's steadfast presence for helping him navigate the uncertainties of his post-playing career, including brief managerial roles that required relocations. Hurst's younger brother died by in 1974. Throughout Hurst's career moves, his family provided essential emotional backing; for instance, during his two-year coaching stint with from 1982 to 1984, Judith and the daughters remained primarily in the UK, maintaining stability amid the overseas commitment. The family later became involved in Hurst's business endeavors after he left football in the mid-1980s to join a firm, where he worked until retirement in 2002, with his daughters occasionally participating in related events and tied to his legacy. Hurst and Judith now have several grandchildren, including a grandson who has publicly undertaken charitable challenges in honor of family members, reflecting the close-knit dynamics that extend across generations. Hurst's residences have centered on for much of his life, beginning with a childhood move from , , to , , in 1949, where the family established long-term roots. During his playing days with West Ham United in the and 1970s, he lived in the area, with occasional stays in for matches and training. The Kuwait coaching period involved temporary accommodation abroad, but the family returned to post-stint. In later years, Hurst and Judith relocated to , , where they currently reside in a comfortable setting. The Hurst has played a key role in managing aspects of his 1966 legacy, including the preservation and distribution of memorabilia; in 2000, Hurst auctioned significant items like his match-worn and winner's to provide financial security for his daughters, ensuring the artifacts reached appreciative collectors while supporting needs. His winner's medal, sold to United in 2012, remains on display in the club's museum, a decision influenced by discussions on legacy preservation.

Health and advocacy

Hurst has enjoyed generally robust health well into his eighties, continuing to engage in tours and media appearances without any major publicized illnesses beyond typical age-related issues, such as episodes of during events in 2024. Aged 83 in November 2025, he remains physically active, crediting his ongoing involvement in farewell tours and interviews for maintaining his vitality. In November 2020, Hurst publicly pledged to donate his brain after death for research into and , a decision driven by the profound impact of on his 1966 World Cup-winning teammates, including the deaths of , , and Norman Hunter in quick succession that year. This commitment stemmed from his firsthand observations of the disease's devastating effects on fellow footballers, whom he described as suffering an "unbelievably brutal" fate, and reflects his broader concern over the links between repeated head impacts in the sport and neurodegenerative conditions. Hurst has been a vocal in campaigns addressing football's long-term risks, including supporting a ban on children heading balls to mitigate risks, as highlighted in his 2020 statements. In 2025, he featured in interviews for the Alzheimer's Society, sharing poignant reflections on witnessing 's toll among his teammates daily, which he called "heartbreaking," to raise awareness and funds for support services. His advocacy extends to promoting healthier lifestyles in sport, such as reduced and alcohol consumption, aligning with public health initiatives he has endorsed since at least 2014.

Career statistics

Club statistics

Geoff Hurst's club career spanned from 1959 to 1979, primarily in English football with stints in Ireland and the United States. He made over 650 competitive appearances and scored more than 290 goals across all clubs, establishing himself as a prolific forward known for his powerful shooting and positioning.

West Ham United (1959–1972)

Hurst spent the bulk of his professional career at West Ham United, where he evolved from a midfielder to a centre-forward and became the club's second-highest goalscorer of all time. In total, he made 499 appearances and scored 248 goals in all competitions for the Hammers. This includes 410 appearances and 180 goals in the First Division, 26 appearances and 23 goals in the FA Cup, 47 appearances and 43 goals in the League Cup, and 15 appearances and 2 goals in the European Cup Winners' Cup. His league performances were particularly notable in the mid-1960s, coinciding with West Ham's successful era. The following table summarizes his First Division appearances and goals season by season:
SeasonAppearancesGoals
1959–6030
1960–6160
1961–62241
1962–632713
1963–643714
1964–654217
1965–663923
1966–674129
1967–683819
1968–694225
1969–703816
1970–713915
1971–72348
Total410 (+1 sub)180
Hurst's contributions were pivotal in West Ham's 1964 FA Cup victory, scoring one goal in the 3–1 semi-final win over Manchester United and netting in the final against Preston North End. In the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup, he scored crucial goals, including in the semi-final against .

Stoke City (1972–1975)

After transferring to Stoke City for £65,000, Hurst continued his scoring form in the First Division, making 119 appearances and scoring 36 goals in all competitions. This breaks down to 108 appearances and 30 goals in league play, with limited cup involvement including 3 appearances and 1 goal in the League Cup and 1 appearance in the . He also played 2 European matches without scoring during Stoke's brief Cup campaign. His league record at Stoke is detailed below:
SeasonAppearancesGoals
1972–734010
1973–743512
1974–75358
Total108 (+5 sub)30
During the 1973–74 season, Hurst formed a productive with Peter Dobing, helping Stoke finish eighth in the league. He received only one booking throughout his time at Stoke, reflecting his disciplined play.

Later Clubs (1975–1979)

Hurst's career wound down with shorter spells at other clubs. At Albion in 1975–76, he made 10 appearances and scored 2 goals, all in the First Division, before moving abroad. In the North American Soccer League with Seattle Sounders during their 1976 season, Hurst appeared in 24 matches and scored 9 goals, contributing to the team's playoff run as the second-leading scorer. He then joined Cork Celtic in for the 1976–77 season, where he recorded 9 appearances and 3 goals in the League of Ireland. Hurst concluded his playing career with non-league Telford United in 1977–79 as player-manager, making approximately 20 appearances and scoring 5 goals, though specific competitive statistics for this period are limited and not included in major tallies.

Career Totals

Across all clubs and competitions, Hurst amassed 650 appearances and 292 goals.

International statistics

Hurst earned 49 caps for the national team between 1966 and 1972, during which he scored 24 goals, establishing himself as a prolific forward under manager . His international debut came on 23 February 1966 against in a friendly at , where lost 1-0, and his final appearance was on 29 April 1972, also against in a quarter-final at , ending in a 3-1 aggregate defeat after a goalless first leg. Hurst's goals were distributed across various match types, reflecting his role in both competitive tournaments and preparatory fixtures. He scored 12 goals in 32 friendly matches, 7 goals in 11 qualification games (all for the ), and 6 goals in 9 tournament appearances (all in the across 1966 and 1970). This breakdown underscores his versatility, with a notable concentration in high-stakes games: 5 goals in the 1966 (including a in the final against ) and 1 in the 1970 group stage against .
Competition TypeCapsGoals
Friendlies3212
European Championship Qualifiers117
96
Total4924
Beyond the 1966 World Cup, Hurst's key scoring contributions included a in a 3-0 friendly victory over on 12 March 1969 at , two goals in a 2-0 British Home Championship win against on 10 May 1969 at , and two goals in a 3-2 British Home Championship defeat of on 16 November 1966 at Ninian Park. Other notable strikes came in a 3-0 friendly against the on 14 April 1970 at and a 3-0 qualifier versus on 21 April 1971 at . These performances highlighted his clinical finishing in diverse scenarios, often capitalizing on crosses from wingers like . Hurst's caps were spread across 18 different opponents, with the majority against British Isles rivals due to the annual Home Championship. He faced 7 times (5 wins, 2 draws), 6 times (all wins), and 5 times (4 wins, 1 draw). Against continental sides, he played 4 times (2 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss) and twice (both wins). Venues reflected England's home advantage, with 30 caps at (16 goals), 17 away matches (5 goals), and 2 neutral venues during the 1970 World Cup (1 goal).
OpponentCapsWinsDrawsLossesGoals Scored Against
Scotland75204
Wales66003
Northern Ireland54102
West Germany42113
France22003
Others (e.g., Greece, Bulgaria)2512859
In comparison to contemporaries, Hurst's international record stands out for its efficiency as a forward; his 24 goals from 49 caps yielded a 0.49 goals-per-game ratio, surpassing Bobby Charlton's 49 goals in 106 caps (0.46 ratio), though Charlton operated primarily as a midfielder and appeared over a longer span from 1958 to 1970. This strike rate, combined with his World Cup heroics, cemented Hurst's status among England's elite post-war attackers.

Honours

Club

West Ham United
  • : 1963–64
  • FA Charity Shield: 1964 (shared)
  • European Cup Winners' Cup: 1964–65

International

England

Individual

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  29. https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/west-bromwich-albion/transfers/verein/984/saison_id/1975
  30. https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-day---june-9489056
  31. https://www.wba.co.uk/news/2016/september/where-did-he-come-from-stoke-city
  32. https://www.wba.co.uk/news/2018/september/on-this-day-in-1975
  33. https://thesefootballtimes.co/2015/07/21/geoff-hurst-at-cork-celtic/
  34. https://www.national-football-teams.com/player/18037/Geoff_Hurst.html
  35. https://www.statscrew.com/soccer/stats/p-hurstgeo001
  36. https://www.statscrew.com/soccer/roster/t-NASEA/y-1976
  37. https://www.transfermarkt.us/sir-geoff-hurst/profil/spieler/200633
  38. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/dec/03/geoff-hurst-heartache-1966-world-cup-donald-mcrae-interview
  39. https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/articles/england-west-germany-1966
  40. https://www.plus.fifa.com/en/content/geoff-hurst-goal-78-england-vs-argentina-1966-fifa-world-cup-england/add8c59c-df03-4951-afbd-61cd63111ba1
  41. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gz1y4jyvxo
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  43. http://www.englandfootballonline.com/TeamPlyrsBios/PlayersH/BioHurstGC.html
  44. https://www.englandstats.com/player.php?pid=843
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  46. https://eu-football.info/_tournament.php?id=QE-3
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  48. https://southern-football-league.co.uk/news/124017/The-Southern-League-Internationals-Part-One
  49. https://www.worcestercityfc.org/news/when-geoff-hurst-played-against-the-city-2527798.html
  50. https://www.nonleaguematters.co.uk/nonleaguetables/lt1978-1979.html
  51. https://theballisround.co.uk/2013/12/18/the-night-the-world-cup-winners-came-to-telford/
  52. https://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=536&teamTabs=managers
  53. https://www.transfermarkt.us/sir-geoff-hurst/profil/trainer/84771
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  55. https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/club/team/38-chelsea/1979-1980
  56. https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/remember-when---geoff-hurst-s-chelsea-were-denied-final-day-prom
  57. https://stamford-bridge.com/player.php?id=631&surname=Hurst&firstname=Geoff
  58. https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/club/team/38-chelsea/1980-1981
  59. https://www.chelseafc.com/en/geoff-hurst
  60. https://www.transfermarkt.com/sir-geoff-hurst/profil/trainer/84771
  61. https://sport360.com/article/football/6106/sir-geoff-hurst-kuwait-post-proved-dream-desert
  62. https://www.aru.ac.uk/graduation-and-alumni/honorary-award-holders2/geoffrey-hurst
  63. https://www.insurancetimes.co.uk/what-links-these-four/1349415.article
  64. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/euro-2021/2021/07/09/sir-geoff-hurst-shoots-scores-sells-insurance/
  65. https://geoffhurst.com/business_mcdonalds.html
  66. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9770541/Euro-2020-Sir-Geoff-Hurst-represent-Englands-World-Cup-winning-heroes-1966-final.html
  67. https://books.google.com/books/about/1966_and_All_That.html?id=r_cWHQAACAAJ
  68. https://www.theguardian.com/film/2023/mar/23/hurst-the-first-and-only-review-misty-eyed-football-doc-reveals-the-man-behind-the-hat-trick
  69. https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/158881/Geoff-Hurst-conned-out-of-600-000
  70. https://motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk/sports/geoff-hurst
  71. https://www.getapeptalk.com/experts/geoff-hurst-speaker
  72. https://www.a1sportingspeakers.com/2025/01/29/sir-geoff-hurst-2025-tour-last-man-standing/
  73. https://geoffhurst.com/events.html
  74. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5359417/2024/03/23/england-geoff-hurst-1966/
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  76. https://geoffhurst.com/site_map.html
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  79. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2F6qutl5hM
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  81. https://london-post.co.uk/sir-geoff-hurst-launches-an-exclusive-competition-for-senior-football-fans-to-win-free-dining-during-the-upcoming-world-cup/
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  85. https://geoffhurst.com/career_achievements.html
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  117. https://geoffhurst.com/career_international.html
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