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Jamie Vardy
Jamie Vardy
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Jamie Richard Vardy (né Gill; born 11 January 1987) is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Serie A club Cremonese.

Key Information

After being released by Sheffield Wednesday at the age of 16, Vardy began his senior career with Stocksbridge Park Steels. He broke into the first team in 2007 and spent three seasons there before joining Northern Premier League Premier Division club FC Halifax Town in 2010. Scoring 25 goals in his debut season, he won the club's Players' Player of the Year award and then moved to Conference Premier club Fleetwood Town in August 2011 for an undisclosed fee. He scored 31 league goals in his first season at his new team, winning the team's Player of the Year award as they won the division.

Vardy signed for Leicester City in the Championship in May 2012 for a non-League record transfer fee of £1 million and helped the team win the Championship in 2014. In the 2015–16 Premier League season, he scored in eleven consecutive Premier League matches, breaking Ruud van Nistelrooy's record, and was voted the Premier League Player of the Season and FWA Footballer of the Year as underdogs Leicester won the title. He won the Premier League Golden Boot for the 2019–20 season, becoming the oldest player to win the award. Leicester won the 2021 FA Cup, allowing them to compete for and subsequently win the 2021 FA Community Shield. After relegation back to the Championship during the 2022–23 season, Vardy was named captain and led the club to promotion the following year by winning the league in 2024, only to get relegated again in 2025. Vardy played his final match with Leicester City exactly 13 years after first signing with them in May 2025, scoring a total of 200 goals in 500 appearances for the club.

Vardy made his international debut for the England national team in June 2015 and was selected for UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. His last appearance for England was at the latter tournament, and later that summer, he asked not to be chosen for any subsequent squads, unless there was an injury crisis.

Early life

[edit]

Vardy was born in Sheffield, South Yorkshire,[5] to Richard Gill and Lisa Clewes. His biological father walked out on the family when Vardy was still an infant.[6] His mother later married Phil Vardy, and he took his stepfather's surname. Vardy grew up in the Hillsborough area of inner-city Sheffield. His stepfather was a crane worker and his mother worked at a solicitors' office.[7] Growing up, he was a fan of Sheffield Wednesday where he idolised striker David Hirst.[8] In the 1990s and 2000s, Vardy witnessed the intense rivalry in the city of Sheffield between fans of Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United that culminated in memorable Steel City derbies.[9] On the rivalry, he notes: "It was always good when they were playing against each other. The atmospheres that you get were really good and people live for football. So games like this for Sheffield are massive and obviously bragging rights and everything that go with it."[9] Being a lifelong Sheffield Wednesday fan, the rivalry led to Vardy performing some memorable celebrations against Sheffield United fans including Leicester City's 2–1 win against United where Vardy scored and celebrated in front of the home fans at Bramall Lane.[10]

Club career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]
Vardy with Stocksbridge Park Steels in 2007 (back row, third from right)

Vardy was in the youth system at Sheffield Wednesday, but was released when he was 16.[11][12] He then played at Stocksbridge Park Steels, earning £30 a week.[13] After making his way through the reserve team, he made his first team league debut under manager Peter Rinkcavage in 2006.[14][15] His real break out came under manager Gary Marrow during the 2007–08 season.[14][16] After impressive displays, a number of Football League teams became interested and in 2009 he spent a week on trial with Crewe Alexandra.[17] A move did not materialise and he later turned down a short-term contract with Rotherham United.[18]

Vardy scored a total of 55 goals for the club in all competitions.[14] He helped the team win the Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup and promotion to the Northern Premier League in 2008–09.[14]

In June 2010, manager Neil Aspin, a longtime admirer of Vardy's talents, signed him for FC Halifax Town for a fee of £15,000.[19] He made his debut on 21 August 2010 in the home match against Buxton, scoring the winning goal in a match that ended 2–1 to his new club.[20] Vardy had a successful first season with "the Shaymen" finishing as the club's top goalscorer with 25 goals from 37 appearances[21] and being voted the Player's Player of the Season. Towards the end of the season he came close to scoring a hat-trick of hat-tricks but failed to find a third goal in Halifax's 3–1 win over Nantwich Town.[22] His goals helped secure the Northern Premier League Premier Division title for the 2010–11 season.[23] Vardy started the 2011–12 season with Halifax and scored three goals in the opening four matches of the season.[24]

Fleetwood Town

[edit]
Vardy playing for Fleetwood Town in 2012

After just over a year with Halifax, Vardy signed for Conference Premier club Fleetwood Town for an undisclosed fee.[25] He made his debut the same day in a 0–0 home draw with York City.[26] He scored his first goals for the club in his third appearance, scoring twice in a 3–2 win away to Kettering Town on 3 September. The following week he scored another two goals against Gateshead at Highbury Stadium, including one in added time. He scored twice for a third consecutive match in the 3–1 away win against Ebbsfleet United, but did not score again for just over a month until he scored a hat-trick in the away match against Alfreton Town on 18 October.[27] On 20 September, he was given a straight red card in a 5–2 home win over Kidderminster Harriers, a match in which each team played for over an hour with ten men.[28] Four days after his hat-trick, Vardy scored two more goals in a 4–1 win over Bath City, a result which left Fleetwood two points behind leaders Wrexham.[29]

In the first round of the FA Cup on 12 November, Vardy scored the second goal in a 2–0 win over League One team Wycombe Wanderers.[30] Fifteen days later, his goal in a 1–1 draw at Gateshead meant that he had recorded a goal in each of his last six appearances, totalling ten goals in that period;[31] he won the Conference Premier Player of the Month award for November.[32] On 13 December, Vardy confirmed a 2–0 win in added time as Fleetwood triumphed away to Yeovil Town in the Cup second round replay.[33]

On 1 January 2012, Vardy scored twice in a 6–0 win over Southport, and six days later the team lost 5–1 at home to local rivals Blackpool in the third round of the Cup.[34] After the match, Blackpool manager Ian Holloway made a £750,000 offer for him, which Fleetwood rejected, holding on for £1 million and a loan back to the club.[35] He totalled six goals in his first four matches of the calendar year.[31] On 21 February, he recorded a second hat-trick of the campaign, in a 6–2 win over Ebbsfleet United which left Fleetwood two points ahead of Wrexham at the top of the table.[36] Vardy scored both Fleetwood goals in a 2–2 draw against Lincoln City on 13 April;[37] Wrexham's draw against Grimsby Town the next day gave Fleetwood the Conference title and a first-ever promotion to the Football League.[38] Vardy's 31 league goals saw him finish the season as the top scorer in the Conference Premier.[39]

Leicester City

[edit]

2012–14

[edit]
Vardy (left) warming up for Leicester City in 2013

On 18 May 2012, it was announced that Vardy would be signing for Championship club Leicester City ahead of the 2012–13 season, for a reported fee of £1 million, a non-League record, which could potentially be worth up to £1.7 million with add-ons.[40] The next day, he signed on a three-year contract until June 2015.[41] On 14 August, Vardy made his debut for Leicester against Torquay United in the first round of the League Cup, playing the entirety of the match at Plainmoor and heading the final goal in a 4–0 win.[42] Four days later he made his Football League debut at the King Power Stadium, a 2–0 win over Peterborough United in which he set up a goal for Andy King.[43] He scored his first league goal in a 2–1 away defeat to Blackburn Rovers on 25 August. In September, he scored the winner in two 2–1 comeback victories, against Burnley and Middlesbrough.[31] Vardy's first season at the club was marred by his own loss of form, prompting criticism from some City supporters on social media, and he even considered leaving football until manager Nigel Pearson and assistant manager Craig Shakespeare convinced him to continue with the club.[44]

The following season brought a turn around in Vardy's fortunes as he established himself as a prolific scorer in the Leicester attack as the club took a commanding lead at the top of the table.[44] Vardy scored and won a penalty kick in the local derby as Leicester beat high flying Derby County 4–1 on 10 January 2014 and reaffirmed their position at the top of the Championship.[45] Vardy finished the season with 16 league goals as Leicester were promoted to the Premier League at the end of the season as champions,[46] and was named Leicester's Players' Player of the season at the club's awards.[47]

2014–15 season

[edit]

On 19 August 2014, Vardy extended his contract until the summer of 2018.[46] After missing the first two matches of the season through injury, he made his Premier League debut on 31 August 2014, as a second-half substitute in a 1–1 draw at home to Arsenal. On 21 September, Vardy delivered a man of the match performance by scoring his first Premier League goal and setting up the other four as Leicester made a surprise comeback from 3–1 down to a 5–3 victory against Manchester United.[48] On 11 April 2015, Vardy scored a 90th-minute winning goal in Leicester's 3–2 victory away to West Bromwich Albion.[49] Impressive form throughout the rest of April, including another winning goal, against Burnley on 25 April, saw Vardy nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award.[50] Vardy and Leicester ended the 2014–15 season in a safe 14th position having picked up 22 points since 4 April, capping things off by opening the scoring in a 5–1 victory against Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the Premier League season on 24 May.[51]

2015–16 season

[edit]
Vardy playing for Leicester City in 2015

Vardy started the 2015–16 season by scoring the opening goal as Leicester picked up a 4–2 victory at home against Sunderland on 8 August 2015.[52] He scored the equaliser in Leicester's 3–2 comeback victory against Aston Villa on 13 September.[53] With two goals in Leicester's 5–2 defeat by Arsenal on 26 September, Vardy reached seven league goals for the season, eclipsing his goal tally of the previous year.[54]

On 24 October, he scored the only goal of a home win over Crystal Palace, the seventh consecutive Premier League match in which he scored, and his tenth goal of the league season.[55][56] Vardy scored in his eighth league match in a row on 31 October, and became only the third player ever to do so in the Premier League after Ruud van Nistelrooy (twice) and Daniel Sturridge, in a 3–2 win over West Bromwich Albion.[57] A week later, he won and scored a penalty to secure a 2–1 win over Watford, putting him on nine consecutive matches with a goal, behind Van Nistelrooy's Premier League record of ten.[58] Vardy also became the first player in the Premier League to score in nine consecutive matches in a single season, as Van Nistelrooy's 10 matches were at the end of the 2002–03 season and the beginning of the 2003–04 season.[59] For his run of good form, Vardy was the Premier League Player of the Month for October 2015, the first Leicester player to be given the accolade since goalkeeper Tim Flowers in 2000.[60]

On 21 November, Vardy matched Van Nistelrooy's record of consecutive Premier League matches with a goal, opening a 3–0 win over Newcastle United.[61] A week later, against Manchester United, he scored again to claim the record for himself.[62] His run ended on 5 December when he did not score in a 3–0 win at Swansea City. Had he done so, he would have equalled the English top-flight record of 12 consecutive scoring matches set by Jimmy Dunne for Sheffield United in the 1931–32 season; the result nonetheless put Leicester top of the table.[63] Following his goalscoring exploits, Vardy was again named as the Premier League Player of the Month for November,[64] becoming only the fifth ever player to win the award in consecutive months.[65] He was presented with a certificate from Guinness World Records for his achievement.[66]

Vardy celebrating Leicester City's Premier League title victory with his family in 2016

In January 2016, manager Claudio Ranieri declared that Vardy and Riyad Mahrez would be sold to no-one, describing them as "priceless".[67] On 2 February, he scored both goals in a 2–0 win against Liverpool, the first being a long-distance volley described as "world class" by opposing manager Jürgen Klopp.[68] Four days later, he signed a new contract to keep himself at Leicester until 2019, increasing his weekly salary to £80,000.[69] On 10 April 2016, Vardy scored both goals (his 20th and 21st of the season) in Leicester's 2–0 win at Sunderland, becoming the first Leicester player since Gary Lineker in the 1984–85 season to score 20 goals in the top division of English football. The result also secured qualification to the UEFA Champions League for the first time in Leicester's history.[70] A week later, Vardy scored the first goal of a 2–2 home draw against West Ham United, but was later sent off for diving in the penalty area under pressure from Angelo Ogbonna.[71] He was charged with improper conduct for his reaction to the dismissal and was fined £10,000, as well as being suspended for two matches during a vital point of Leicester's eventually successful title campaign.[72]

With 24 league goals, Vardy was the second-highest scorer in the Premier League for the 2015–16 season, alongside Sergio Agüero, only one goal behind Golden Boot winner Harry Kane.[73] Vardy was one of four Leicester players in the PFA Team of the Year;[74] he was later also named the FWA Footballer of the Year,[75] and the 2016 Barclays Premier League Player of the Season.[76]

2016–17 season

[edit]
Vardy (left) playing for Leicester City in 2017

On 3 June 2016, Arsenal made a bid of £22 million for Vardy, triggering a release clause in his contract. Leicester offered him improved terms, and 20 days later he agreed to a new four-year contract, to be signed on his return from UEFA Euro 2016. Vardy rejected Arsenal's offer,[77] because Arsenal had not promised that he would be played in his normal position and because of the differences between the two club's tactics, with Arsène Wenger favouring possession and Leicester playing on the counter-attack.[78][79][80][81]

On 7 August 2016, he scored in a 2–1 defeat to Manchester United in the 2016 FA Community Shield.[82] Twenty days later, Vardy scored his first league goal of the season in Leicester's first win of the campaign, beating Swansea City 2–1.[83] On 10 December, Vardy ended his ten-match drought within the opening five minutes against Manchester City. He ended up scoring another two for his first professional hat-trick to help Leicester to a 4–2 victory, their first win in five league matches.[84] A week later, he was sent off in the first half of a 2–2 draw at Stoke City for a challenge on Mame Biram Diouf; Leicester appealed unsuccessfully against his three-match suspension.[85]

Vardy scored his first Champions League goal on 22 February 2017 in a 2–1 away defeat to Sevilla in the first leg of the round of 16.[86] On 18 April, he scored Leicester's equaliser in their second leg quarter-final match against Atlético Madrid, but nonetheless Leicester were eliminated 2–1 on aggregate.[87]

2017–19

[edit]
Vardy playing for Leicester City in 2017

Vardy began his sixth season at the club by netting two goals in the 4–3 away loss to Arsenal in the opening day of the 2017–18 season.[88] On 16 October, Vardy made his 200th appearance for the club in the 1–1 draw against West Bromwich Albion.[89] Two weeks later, he scored the opener of a 2–0 home win against Everton in Claude Puel's debut match as Leicester manager.[90] On 23 December 2017, Vardy scored his 50th Premier League goal in a 2–2 draw against Manchester United.[91]

By scoring twice in the final match of the season, a 5–4 away defeat by Tottenham Hotspur, Vardy reached 20-goal landmark in the Premier League for the second time in his career.[92] Overall, he made 42 appearances in all competitions, scoring 23 times as Leicester finished the Premier League in 9th place.[93] Vardy was the recipient of the BBC Goal of the Season award for a goal against West Bromwich Albion where he struck a first-time ball with his weaker foot that was looped over his shoulder at range by his strike partner Riyad Mahrez.[94]

On 9 August 2018, just before the start of the 2018–19 season, Vardy signed a new four-year contract at Leicester, keeping him at the club until June 2022.[95] Vardy started the season as a substitute, scoring a 92nd minute consolation goal in the 2–1 away defeat to Manchester United in the opening match of the season.[96] He was sent off in the following match after a harsh tackle on Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Matt Doherty.[97] On 9 March 2019, Vardy scored his 100th goal for Leicester, scoring two goals in a 3–1 home win over Fulham.[98] On 28 April 2019, Vardy scored another two goals, this time in a 3–0 home victory against Arsenal, bringing his goal tally in league football for Leicester to 100.[99]

2019–20 season

[edit]
Vardy (left) playing for Leicester City in 2019

On 25 October 2019, Vardy scored a hat-trick in a 9–0 away win against Southampton.[100] Vardy scored his 100th and 101st goal in the Premier League on 4 July 2020 in a 3–0 victory over Crystal Palace.[101] He became the first Leicester player to reach the 100 goal milestone, and the 29th overall in Premier League history.[102] Of those 29 players, only Ian Wright (28 years 286 days) made his debut in the competition at a greater age than Vardy (27 years 232 days).[102]

With 23 goals, he won the Premier League Golden Boot for the first time in his career, followed by Southampton forward Danny Ings and Arsenal forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang both on 22 goals.[103] The 33-year-old Vardy became the oldest player to win the award; Didier Drogba was the previous oldest when, aged 32, he led Chelsea to the 2009–10 Premier League title with 29 goals.[104]

2020–22

[edit]

On 26 August 2020, Vardy signed a new contract with Leicester City until June 2023.[105] On 27 September, he scored his second hat-trick against Manchester City in a 5–2 away win.[106] On 25 October, he scored the only goal in a 1–0 win against Arsenal, to gain Leicester City their first away win against Arsenal since September 1973.[107] On 6 December, while celebrating his last-minute goal in Leicester's 2–1 win against Sheffield United, Vardy slid into and destroyed a corner flag which was carrying the rainbow flag colours as part of Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign. Vardy later signed the flag and gave it to Foxes Pride, Leicester's LGBT+ supporters group.[108] On 15 May 2021, he started in the 2021 FA Cup final as Leicester defeated Chelsea 1–0, the first time the club had ever won the Cup.[109] By playing in the final, Vardy became the first player to play in every round of the competition, including the preliminary stages.[110] Before the 2021–22 season, Leicester would win the 2021 FA Community Shield over defending Premier League champions Manchester City.[111]

2022–24

[edit]

In the midst of Leicester City's battle to steer clear of relegation in the 2022–23 season, he emphasized that eluding relegation would stand as the pinnacle accomplishment of his career.[112] Nevertheless, Leicester City faced relegation after ending up in the 18th position on the league table.[113] Following captain Jonny Evans' departure, Leicester manager Enzo Maresca named Vardy club captain for the 2023–24 EFL Championship season.[114] On 29 April 2024, he netted twice in a 3–0 away victory against Preston, clinching the title for Leicester City and catapulting them straight back into the Premier League.[115]

2024–25 season

[edit]

On 7 June 2024, Vardy announced he had signed a new one-year deal with the club.[116] On 19 August, in Leicester's first match after their return to the Premier League, Vardy netted an equaliser against Tottenham Hotspur to help his team draw 1–1.[117] Following Leicester City's confirmed relegation from the Premier League after a 1–0 home defeat to Liverpool, Vardy described the 2024–25 season as a "total embarrassment" and issued a heartfelt apology to fans.[118]

On 24 April 2025, it was announced that Vardy would leave Leicester at the end of the 2024–25 season. Vardy was the last remaining player from Leicester's 2016 title success still at the club.[114]

Vardy's last game for Leicester was on 18 May 2025 against Ipswich Town, in the club's last home game, and second-last game of the season. Leicester confirmed that he would not play the club's final game away at Bournemouth to ensure a proper send-off in front of the Leicester fans.[119] His final game also happened to be his 500th game for Leicester, and played on the exact date he signed for Leicester 13 years earlier (18 May 2012). In the game, Vardy scored his 200th goal for Leicester in the 28th minute, before going off to a standing ovation in the 80th minute as Leicester secured a 2–0 victory.[120][121]

Cremonese

[edit]

On 1 September 2025, Italian Serie A club Cremonese announced the signing of Vardy as a free transfer on a one-year contract with an extension option.[122] On 15 September, he made his debut as a substitute in an away goalless draw against Hellas Verona.[123] A month later, on 25 October, he scored his first goal in a 1–1 draw with Atalanta.[124] On 1 December, he scored twice in a 3–1 away win over Bologna, his first Serie A brace, as Cremonese ended Bologna's 12-match unbeaten run in all competitions.[125] He subsequently won the Serie A Player of the Month award for November, the first English player to do so.[126]

International career

[edit]
Vardy playing for England at the 2018 FIFA World Cup

On 21 May 2015, Vardy was called up to the England national team for the first time ahead of a friendly against the Republic of Ireland and a UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying match against Slovenia. He made his debut on 7 June in the goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, replacing England captain, Wayne Rooney, for the final 15 minutes.[127] On 30 August, Vardy was again called up to the England squad for the matches against San Marino and Switzerland in UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying,[128] being selected in the starting line-up as England ran out 6–0 winners against San Marino in Serravalle six days later.[129] Vardy scored his first international goal on 26 March 2016, equalising with a back heel from Nathaniel Clyne's cross, as a substitute in a 3–2 away win against Germany.[130] He scored again, three days later, the opening goal in a 2–1 defeat to the Netherlands at Wembley Stadium.[131]

Vardy made his tournament debut on 16 June, in England's second group match at UEFA Euro 2016, coming off the bench in the second half to score an equalising goal against Wales, helping his team come from behind to win the match 2–1.[132] During the tournament, there were media rumours of a feud between Vardy and fellow striker Rooney, which were denied by manager Roy Hodgson.[133]

Vardy was named in the 23-man England squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.[134] He was used sparingly during the tournament, starting only the final group stage match against Belgium as England reached the World Cup semi-finals for only the third time in their history.[135] On 28 August 2018, Vardy stepped aside from the England national team, telling manager Gareth Southgate that he did not want to be considered for selection unless there was an injury crisis.[136]

Player profile

[edit]

Impact of playing non-League football

[edit]

Vardy's journey to the top flight is unique by dint of his long spell in non-League football. Prior to his Premier League debut at the age of 27, he had already played in levels eight, seven, six, five and two of the English football league system.[137] He has cited his late arrival in the Premier League as a key reason why he is able to maintain longevity in football and still play intensively into his mid-thirties, stating that "My legs feel great and people say the older you get your pace goes, but it's not affecting that side of things as of yet. Hopefully because I came into the game later, it means I've got longer to go."[137]

Pundits have drawn parallels between Vardy's playing style and non-League football. Sky Sports pundit and former England assistant manager Gary Neville has said: "When he came onto the scene, he was raw and aggressive. I used to say he played like a non-league player in the Premier League. His game has become more polished, more smooth, [with] more subtlety".[138]

Style of play

[edit]

In 2020, FourFourTwo listed Vardy as one of the best strikers in world football due to his elite finishing ability, speed and positional awareness.[139] Ian Wright, who also rose from non-League football to the Premier League and England national team, wrote in October 2015 that Vardy could be England's equivalent to Salvatore Schillaci at UEFA Euro 2016; Schillaci, another late bloomer, began the 1990 FIFA World Cup as a substitute behind more established players, and ended it as the top scorer.[140] Wright, who first learnt of Vardy when his former Burnley teammate Micky Mellon signed him for Fleetwood, rates Vardy as a hard-working player with a good first touch, who creates constant work for defenders, and plays by instinct instead of being moulded by his managers.[140] Although Vardy usually plays in a central role as a striker, he is a versatile player who is capable of playing in several attacking positions, and has also been used as a winger.[141]

In addition to his prolific goalscoring, Vardy is known for his high work rate, relentless running, direct approach, two-footedness and ability to link play.[142] He is considered an extremely fast and dynamic striker, with good positioning, and an excellent sense of space in the area.[143][144] These traits enable him to play on the last defender's shoulder, time his runs to beat the defensive line and stretch opponents, which, combined with his pace and clinical finishing, makes him a threat on counter-attacks which suits the style of Leicester City teams.[142][141] Vardy is also an accurate penalty taker, having converted 26 penalties in the Premier League.[145] He also has good aerial ability whilst also being capable of striking the ball powerfully with either foot.[144][146] Gary Neville commented on how Vardy's approach influences teammates: "He sets the tempo and the tone for the rest of the team and gives no other player behind him any excuse for not working hard."[147]

Lifestyle and approach to training

[edit]

According to Leicester vice-chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Vardy drank heavily every night during his early days at the club, and would turn up at training still intoxicated. Srivaddhanaprabha discussed with Vardy what he expected in his life, and Vardy gave up drinking and took training more seriously from then on.[148]

Other pundits, such as Jamie Jackson, have said Vardy refocused after the earlier night-club assault incident, and that the earlier arrival of Ella, his first daughter, was a stabilising force.[149]

During UEFA Euro 2016, Vardy spoke to the media about his unusual lifestyle choices for a professional sportsperson. He said that he does not exercise in a gym, and that he consumes Red Bull caffeinated beverages and snus smokeless tobacco.[150][151]

Personal life

[edit]
Vardy's wife Rebekah supporting him at the 2018 FIFA World Cup

Vardy is a lifelong fan of Sheffield Wednesday, one of the clubs in his home town.[152]

Before turning professional, Vardy combined playing non-League football with a job as a technician making medical splints.[153] In 2007, he received a conviction for assault following an incident outside a pub, and had to play with an electronic tag fitted for six months, while his curfew also limited his playing time at Stocksbridge Park Steels.[154]

In August 2015, The Sun on Sunday published a video of Vardy at a casino the previous month, calling a man of East Asian origin a "Jap". He apologised for a "regrettable error of judgement" and was fined by Leicester, who put him on an educational course.[155]

Vardy met Rebekah Nicholson in 2014 while she was working as a nightclub promoter.[156][157] The couple married on 25 May 2016 at Peckforton Castle in Cheshire, with David Nugent as the best man.[158] Vardy has four biological children: three with his wife, and one from a previous relationship. He is also a stepfather to two children from his wife's previous relationships.[159]

In November 2015, Vardy launched V9 Academy, an annual week-long camp designed to offer coaching and guidance to 60 non-League players and offer them the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of scouts from league clubs.[160][161] The same month, Stocksbridge Park Steels named their main stand after him.[162] In December 2015, the Leicester-based food manufacturer Walkers brought out a limited edition 'Vardy Salted' crisp flavour, in recognition of Vardy's goalscoring run.[163] Adrian Butchart, English writer of the Goal! series of football-related fiction films, finished a script in 2016 for a film about Vardy.[164] Vardy is an ambassador for Dorothy Goodman School, a special needs school in Hinckley, Leicestershire.[165]

On 15 June 2021, Vardy acquired a minority stake in American soccer club Rochester Rhinos,[166] later renamed as Rochester New York FC.[167] Vardy was a co-owner of the club with David and Wendy Dworkin, who bought the club in 2016.[168] The club ceased operations in March 2023.[169]

Selected works

[edit]
  • Vardy, Jamie (2016). From Nowhere: My Story. London: Ebury Digital. ISBN 9781473550469.
  • Vardy, Jamie; Vardy, Rebekah (2022). Cedric: The Little Sloth with a Big Dream. Exeter: Little Brother Books Limited. ISBN 978-1912342242.

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 9 February 2026
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Europe Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Stocksbridge Park Steels 2005–06[c][170] NPL Division One 0 0 0 0 — — 1[d] 0 1 0
2006–07[171][172] NPL Division One 3 0 1 0 — — 0 0 4 0
2007–08[173][14] NPL Division One South 29 10 3 1 — — 5[e] 3 37 14
2008–09[174][14] NPL Division One South 33 16 2 1 — — 12[f] 5 47 22
2009–10[175][14] NPL Premier Division 23 14 1 2 — — 2[g] 3 26 19
Total 88 40 7 4 — — 20 11 115 55
FC Halifax Town 2010–11[21] NPL Premier Division 33 23 3 1 — — 1[h] 1 37 25
2011–12[24] Conference North 4 3 — — — — 4 3
Total 37 26 3 1 — — 1 1 41 28
Fleetwood Town 2011–12[24] Conference Premier 36 31 6 3 — — 0 0 42 34
Leicester City 2012–13[176] Championship 26 4 2 0 1 1 — — 29 5
2013–14[177] Championship 37 16 1 0 3 0 — — 41 16
2014–15[178] Premier League 34 5 2 0 0 0 — — 36 5
2015–16[179] Premier League 36 24 1 0 1 0 — — 38 24
2016–17[180] Premier League 35 13 2 0 1 0 9[i] 2 1[j] 1 48 16
2017–18[181] Premier League 37 20 3 2 2 1 — — 42 23
2018–19[182] Premier League 34 18 0 0 2 0 — — 36 18
2019–20[183] Premier League 35 23 1 0 4 0 — — 40 23
2020–21[184] Premier League 34 15 4 0 0 0 4[k] 2 — 42 17
2021–22[185] Premier League 25 15 0 0 1 2 6[l] 0 1[j] 0 33 17
2022–23[186] Premier League 37 3 2 0 3 3 — — 42 6
2023–24[187] Championship 35 18 1 1 1 1 — — 37 20
2024–25[188] Premier League 35 9 1 1 0 0 — — 36 10
Total 440 183 20 4 19 8 19 4 2 1 500 200
Cremonese 2025–26[189] Serie A 20 5 — — — — 20 5
Career total 621 285 36 12 19 8 19 4 23 13 718 322
  1. ^ Includes FA Cup
  2. ^ Includes Football League/EFL Cup
  3. ^ Source only includes data for the 2005–06 season up to and including 6 April 2006
  4. ^ Appearance in Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup
  5. ^ One appearance one goal in FA Trophy, two appearances in Northern Premier League Challenge Cup, one appearance two goals in Northern Premier League President's Cup, one appearance in Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup
  6. ^ Three appearances three goals in FA Trophy, two appearances in Northern Premier League Challenge Cup, one appearance in Northern Premier League President's Cup, four appearances one goal in Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup, two appearances one goal in Northern Premier League D1 South play-offs
  7. ^ One appearance one goal in Northern Premier League Challenge Cup, one appearance two goals in Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup
  8. ^ Appearance in FA Trophy
  9. ^ Appearances in UEFA Champions League
  10. ^ a b Appearance in FA Community Shield
  11. ^ Appearances in UEFA Europa League
  12. ^ Four appearances in UEFA Europa League, two appearances in UEFA Europa Conference League

International

[edit]
Appearances and goals by national team and year[190]
National team Year Apps Goals
England 2015 4 0
2016 10 5
2017 5 1
2018 7 1
Total 26 7
England score listed first, score column indicates score after each Vardy goal[190]
List of international goals scored by Jamie Vardy
No. Date Venue Cap Opponent Score Result Competition Ref.
1 26 March 2016 Olympiastadion, Berlin, Germany 5  Germany 2–2 3–2 Friendly [191]
2 29 March 2016 Wembley Stadium, London, England 6  Netherlands 1–0 1–2 Friendly [192]
3 22 May 2016 City of Manchester Stadium, Manchester, England 7  Turkey 2–1 2–1 Friendly [193]
4 16 June 2016 Stade Bollaert-Delelis, Lens, France 9  Wales 1–1 2–1 UEFA Euro 2016 [194]
5 15 November 2016 Wembley Stadium, London, England 14  Spain 2–0 2–2 Friendly [195]
6 26 March 2017 Wembley Stadium, London, England 16  Lithuania 2–0 2–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification [196]
7 27 March 2018 Wembley Stadium, London, England 21  Italy 1–0 1–1 Friendly [197]

Honours

[edit]

Stocksbridge Park Steels

FC Halifax Town

Fleetwood Town

Leicester City

Individual

References

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

Jamie Vardy

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from Grokipedia
Jamie Vardy (born 11 January 1987) is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Italian club U.S. Cremonese. Known for his pace, finishing, and remarkable journey from to international stardom, Vardy rose through the lower tiers of English football before becoming a icon with Leicester City. Vardy's early career began in semi-professional football with Park Steels in the , where he played while working in factories and as a parcel sorter. In 2010, he moved to Halifax Town for a £15,000 transfer fee, scoring prolifically to help the club gain promotion. The following year, Fleetwood Town signed him for a then-non-league record £150,000, and he contributed 31 goals in the 2011–12 season as the team won the Conference Premier title and promotion to the Football League. In May 2012, Vardy joined City from for £1 million, marking the highest fee ever paid for a non-league player at the time. Over 13 seasons with the Foxes, he made 500 appearances and scored 200 goals, including 145 in the . His standout achievements include scoring in 11 consecutive matches during the 2015–16 season—a record—and playing a pivotal role in 's improbable title victory that year against 5000–1 odds. Vardy also won the in 2021, the Golden Boot as the league's top scorer in 2019–20 with 23 goals (becoming the oldest recipient at age 33), and helped secure promotion back to the in 2024. On the international stage, Vardy earned his first England cap in 2015 at age 28 and went on to make 26 appearances, scoring seven goals. He was part of the England squads for —where they reached the round of 16—and the . After Leicester's relegation to the in 2025, Vardy departed the club in July of that year, having scored his 200th goal for them in his final match. He signed with side Cremonese in August 2025, aiming to continue his career into his late 30s and prove doubters wrong regarding his age and physicality. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches (1.79 m), Vardy remains renowned for his combative style, work rate, and ability to thrive as an underdog.

Early life

Childhood and family

Jamie Vardy was born Jamie Richard Gill on 11 January 1987 in , , and grew up in the working-class Hillsborough area of the city. His biological father, Richard Gill, a labourer, left the family when Vardy was still an infant, having separated from Vardy's mother, Lisa, shortly after his birth. Lisa later married Philip Vardy, and Jamie adopted his stepfather's surname at a young age, forming a close bond with both his mother—who worked at a solicitors' office—and stepfather, whom he has always called "Dad" and credits as a key parental figure in his upbringing. From an early age, Vardy was immersed in Sheffield's vibrant local football culture, growing up in a tight-knit, working-class community near that fostered a deep passion for the sport. A devoted supporter of Sheffield Wednesday since childhood, he idolized the club's striker David Hirst for his prolific goal-scoring and embodied the aspirations of many young fans in the area dreaming of professional success. The family's modest socioeconomic circumstances offered limited opportunities, with Vardy's stepfather working as a crane operator in an era of industrial decline in . After leaving at age 16, Vardy took a job as a carbon fibre in a local factory, enduring long shifts that strained his back and reflected the resilience required to navigate such challenges while nurturing his football ambitions.

Youth football development

Vardy first became involved in organized youth football through a trial with Sheffield Wednesday's academy at the age of 10, securing a place in their as a promising forward. He progressed through the ranks, often playing with older age groups despite his developing physique, but faced growing scrutiny over his physical attributes. In 2003, at age 16, Vardy was released by Sheffield Wednesday primarily due to concerns about his size and physical growth, as coaches deemed him too slight and small to succeed at higher levels. Devastated by the decision, Vardy quit organized football for several months, stepping away from the game entirely to focus on other pursuits. Following his release, Vardy entered the workforce to support himself, taking up demanding manual labor including 12-hour shifts at a carbon-fibre splint factory in . This period of hardship and anonymity tested his resolve but ultimately forged a deeper determination, transforming the sting of rejection into a driving force for personal growth and resilience. By around 2006, he began his semi-professional steps with Park Steels, marking a tentative return to competitive play after brief amateur involvement.

Club career

Early non-league career

After being released by Wednesday's youth academy at age 16, Vardy joined Stocksbridge Park Steels in 2006, marking his entry into semi-professional football in the Division One South. Over four seasons from 2006 to 2010, he scored 66 goals in 107 appearances, establishing himself as a prolific forward despite the challenges of part-time play. His contributions helped the team secure promotion to the Premier Division via the play-offs in 2008–09, and he played a key role in winning the & Senior Cup that same season, scoring in the final at Hillsborough. Vardy's form at attracted attention from higher-tier non-league clubs, leading to his transfer to in June 2010 for a fee of £15,000. Under manager , who had scouted him for over a year, Vardy adapted quickly to the step up in competition within the Premier Division. In the 2010–11 season, he netted 28 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions, finishing as the club's top scorer and earning the Players’ Player of the Year award as Halifax clinched the league title by 19 points and earned promotion to the Conference North. His scoring consistency continued into the early part of the 2011–12 season, where he added three goals in four matches before departing the club. Throughout his early non-league days, Vardy faced significant financial hardships, earning just £30 per week at while working 12-hour shifts in a carbon fibre to make ends meet. The physical toll of manual labor, including crafting prosthetic limbs, often left him fatigued for training and matches, yet it fueled his determination to prove his doubters wrong after his youth rejection. At Halifax, his wages remained modest, but the promotion success provided a platform for further advancement while he balanced work until quitting to pursue football full-time.

Fleetwood Town

In August 2011, Jamie Vardy signed for Fleetwood Town from Halifax Town on the penultimate day of the for a fee of £150,000, marking his first full-time professional contract at the age of 24. Previously playing part-time while working in a factory, Vardy adapted swiftly to the demands of professional training and matches, scoring on his debut in the and netting in his third league appearance against York City. Earning £850 per week, he integrated well with teammates, contributing to the team's camaraderie through off-field activities while focusing on his explosive pace and finishing. During the 2011–12 Conference Premier season, Vardy emerged as Fleetwood's talismanic forward, scoring 31 goals in 36 league appearances to finish as the division's top scorer and win the Golden Boot award. His prolific form, including a in a 5–0 win over and crucial strikes in promotion-clinching matches, propelled to the league title with 92 points from 46 games, securing their historic first promotion to the Football League Two. Vardy's goals accounted for nearly a third of 's total, transforming the club from non-league contenders into professional outfit and earning praise from captain as "the best player have ever had." Vardy's breakout campaign at attracted interest from several clubs, culminating in his transfer to Leicester City in May 2012 for an initial fee of £1 million—payable in installments and a record for a non-league player at the time—with potential add-ons rising to £1.7 million. The move, finalized after Leicester met Fleetwood's valuation following the promotion success, represented a pivotal step in Vardy's career, launching him into the professional Football League.

Leicester City

Jamie Vardy joined Leicester City from Fleetwood Town in May 2012 for a fee of £1 million, marking his entry into professional football after a successful stint that aided promotion to the Football League. In his debut 2012–13 season in the , he made 29 appearances and scored 5 goals, contributing to the team's mid-table finish. His breakthrough came in 2013–14, where he netted 16 goals in 41 appearances, playing a pivotal role in Leicester's promotion to the as champions. The season tested Vardy's adaptability, as he scored 5 goals in 36 appearances amid a relegation battle that Leicester survived on the final day. Vardy's form exploded in 2015–16, scoring 24 goals in 38 league games, including a record 11 consecutive matches with a goal from to November, to lead to their first-ever title. From 2016 to 2020, Vardy maintained consistent output despite the pressures of title defense, European competition, and managerial changes. He scored 16 goals in 48 appearances during the 2016–17 season, including 2 in the Champions League group stage, as Leicester reached the quarter-finals and won the Community Shield. In 2017–18 and 2018–19, he tallied 23 and 18 goals respectively, showcasing his clinical finishing. His pinnacle came in 2019–20 with 23 goals, earning the Golden Boot as the oldest recipient at age 33 and the first player to win both Conference Premier and Premier League top scorer awards. Vardy's later years from 2020 to 2025 highlighted his enduring impact and leadership. In 2020–21, he scored 17 goals in 42 appearances, captaining the side in key matches en route to Leicester's first victory. Injuries limited him to 6 goals in 2022–23, contributing to relegation, but he rebounded in 2023–24 with 20 goals in the , securing promotion as champions and earning the Player of the Season award. Appointed full-time captain by for that campaign, Vardy led by example. He extended his contract in June 2024 for one more year, but following relegation in 2024–25—where he added 10 goals in 36 appearances—Vardy departed in May 2025 after reaching the milestone of 200 goals in 500 appearances for the club. By his exit, Vardy had amassed 145 goals for , cementing his status as the club's all-time leading scorer.

Cremonese

In September 2025, following City's relegation to the , Jamie Vardy signed a one-year contract with newly promoted club , with an option to extend for an additional year based on performance conditions. The 38-year-old forward, who had spent 13 seasons at , viewed the move as an opportunity to embrace a fresh challenge in Italian football, motivated by the ethos that defined his career ascent from non-league obscurity. Vardy expressed eagerness to silence skeptics questioning his age and ability, emphasizing his commitment to helping Cremonese establish themselves in the top flight. Vardy's transition to Serie A was bolstered by his exceptional physical condition, maintained through a disciplined offseason regimen of training, recovery, and nutrition that kept him near peak fitness despite his age. Upon joining Cremonese, he underwent medical assessments confirming no underlying issues, and he noted rapid improvements in his sharpness through the club's sessions. This preparation enabled him to adapt to the league's tactical demands and higher intensity, allowing the veteran to contribute effectively from the outset. Vardy made his Serie A debut as a substitute against Hellas Verona on 16 September 2025, marking his first competitive appearance outside . In the 2025–26 season, he has netted five goals in 15 Serie A matches, including scoring in the 29th minute and assisting the opener in a 2–2 draw against Cagliari on 8 January 2026, which marked his 150th career goal in Europe's top five leagues—with 116 scored after turning 30—after Cremonese took a 2–0 halftime lead. These contributions, along with earlier goals such as a solo effort in a 2-1 defeat to Juventus on 1 2025, have showcased his enduring pace and finishing . Vardy has been pivotal in Cremonese's efforts to secure points early in the season, often deployed as a substitute to exploit fatigued defenses. Vardy's arrival has extended beyond on-pitch output, positioning him as a mentor to Cremonese's younger players through his wealth of experience in high-pressure environments. His guidance on mentality and has been highlighted as a key asset for the squad's development. The transfer has also drawn widespread media coverage, reigniting interest in Vardy's inspirational narrative from to elite European competition, further elevating the profile of the modest club.

International career

Senior debut and appearances

Vardy's first call-up to the senior national team came on 21 May 2015, shortly after Leicester City's promotion to the the previous year, rewarding his prolific form with 16 goals in the 2014–15 season that carried over into the top flight. This selection highlighted a form-based approach to squad building under manager , bypassing traditional academy pathways in favor of current performance metrics. He made his debut as a substitute in a friendly against the on 7 June 2015, entering in the 74th minute during a goalless draw in . Vardy's integration into the squad was swift, reflecting 's emphasis on versatile forwards capable of immediate impact amid a transitional period post-qualification for 2016. Over the next three years, Vardy accumulated 26 caps for , scoring 7 goals across qualifiers, friendlies, and major tournaments between 2015 and 2018. His goals included notable strikes in friendlies against (26 March 2016), the (29 March 2016), (22 May 2016), and (15 November 2016), as well as a World Cup qualifier versus (26 March 2017), a group stage match against (16 June 2016), and another friendly against (27 March 2018). These contributions underscored his role as a poacher in high-stakes matches, often capitalizing on limited minutes in his 26 appearances, where he scored 7 goals. Vardy's selection continued under from 2016 onward, prioritizing his pace and finishing over established internationals, though he often featured as a rotational option behind primary strikers. In terms of efficiency, Vardy netted 7 times while also recording 1 assist—most notably in a 2–0 win over on 9 October 2015. This output demonstrated his clinical edge in transitional play, aligning with his club reputation for converting chances under pressure. However, by August 2018, following England's run to the semi-finals, Vardy informed manager Southgate of his decision to step aside from international duty, citing a desire to focus on Leicester City amid increasing physical demands at age 31. This move allowed younger players to emerge while preserving his energy for domestic competitions.

Major tournaments and retirement

Vardy was named in England's 23-man squad for , marking a significant milestone in his rapid rise from . He made his tournament debut as a substitute in the second group stage match against on 16 June 2016, entering at halftime and scoring the equalizing goal in the 56th minute with a volley from a cross, helping secure a 2-1 victory that propelled England to the top of Group B. Vardy appeared as an unused substitute in the opener against and started in the final group game against , where he created chances but England drew 0-0, finishing second in the group. His contributions added depth to the attack during England's group stage campaign, but they were eliminated in the round of 16 by with a 1–2 defeat on 27 June 2016. For the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Vardy earned a place in Gareth Southgate's squad after a strong qualifying campaign in which he scored one goal across four appearances. In the tournament proper, he featured in all three group stage matches, starting in the dead-rubber 1-0 loss to Belgium on 28 June 2018 as part of a rotated lineup, while coming off the bench in the 2-1 win over Tunisia and the 6-1 rout of Panama. Vardy did not score or assist during the competition but played a supporting role as England advanced to the semi-finals for the first time since 1990, ultimately finishing fourth after losses to Croatia and Belgium. On 28 August 2018, shortly after the , Vardy informed Southgate of his decision to retire from international duty at age 31, citing a desire to extend his club career with Leicester City, spend more time with his family, and avoid the physical toll of international commitments following limited playing —totaling just 88 minutes across the tournament. He left the door slightly ajar for a potential recall in emergencies but emphasized focusing on domestic success, a choice that allowed him seven weeks of rest that season. Southgate respected the decision, and Vardy was not selected for any subsequent squads, ending his international career with 26 caps and seven goals. Vardy's journey with , from earning his debut at 28 through exceptional club form to featuring in two major tournaments, symbolizes the ethos under Southgate, rewarding performance over traditional pathways and inspiring non-league talents to aspire to the highest levels.

Player profile

Style of play

Jamie Vardy is renowned for his exceptional pace, which allows him to exploit spaces behind defenses, with a recorded top speed of 35.44 km/h during the season. His over the first 10-15 yards is particularly , enabling sudden bursts that disrupt defensive lines and create scoring opportunities on counter-attacks. Complementing this speed are his poaching instincts and clinical finishing inside the , where he thrives on first-time shots and precise placement with either foot, converting half-chances into goals through instinctive timing and power. These attributes have made him a prolific "fox in the box," with a focus on positioning between central defenders and full-backs to capitalize on through balls. Vardy's positional versatility sees him primarily as a central striker but capable of making wide runs to stretch defenses, while his high work rate off the ball includes relentless pressing to regain possession high up the pitch. He often drifts deeper to link play, offering short passing options and combining with wingers through one-touch sequences, which enhances his tactical role as both a finisher and facilitator in systems like Leicester's under . This pressing intensity, combined with his direct approach, forces opponents into errors and supports team transitions. Over his career, Vardy's style has evolved from the raw aggression of his non-league days—characterized by physicality and opportunism—to a more refined movement in the , emphasizing intelligent positioning and aerial timing despite entering his late 30s. Post-30, he has adapted to injuries by maintaining dynamism through experience-driven runs and box presence, preserving his finishing prowess. His mentality has been particularly lauded, with former Leicester manager describing him as a "fantastic " with an unrelenting drive and need for freedom on the pitch. Analysts have likened his opportunism to that of , highlighting similarities in pace, work rate, and goal-scoring instincts.

Impact and legacy

Jamie Vardy's extraordinary journey from non-league obscurity to stardom has established him as the archetype for late bloomers in professional football, inspiring countless aspiring players who begin their careers outside the traditional academy systems. Joining Leicester City at age 25 directly from Fleetwood Town in 2012 for a then-record £1 million fee for a non-league player, Vardy's path challenged the conventional emphasis on early youth development and highlighted the potential of untapped talent in lower tiers. His success culminated in becoming the oldest player to win the at 33 years old during the 2019–20 season, where he scored 23 goals to edge out competitors and set a benchmark for sustained excellence later in a career. This achievement not only underscored his personal resilience but also served as a motivational narrative for players in their mid-20s and beyond, demonstrating that professional breakthroughs remain possible without elite academy pedigrees. Vardy's remarkable longevity in elite football, continuing to perform at a high level into his late 30s, can be attributed to his late professional start, which delayed the physical toll typically accumulated by players who enter top-flight competition in their late teens or early 20s. By avoiding the intense rigors of professional training and matches during his formative years—spending them instead in non-league setups like Stocksbridge Park Steels and Halifax Town—Vardy preserved his athleticism for longer, allowing him to maintain explosive pace and goal-scoring prowess well past the age when many strikers decline. Complementing this, his disciplined, personalized training regime, including tailored sessions at that often deviated from team norms—such as selective participation to optimize match readiness—and recovery methods like , has enabled consistent output at age 38, as evidenced by his ongoing contributions after transferring to club Cremonese in 2025. As a , Vardy's rags-to-riches saga has been immortalized in media that celebrates his role in Leicester City's improbable title win, often dubbed the "fairy tale" season, where his 24 goals propelled the 5000–1 underdogs to glory and shattered expectations in English football. This narrative has inspired books such as Jamie Vardy: The Boy From Nowhere by Frank Worrall, which chronicles his non-league struggles and ascent, and official club documentaries like Fearless Foxes: Our Story, focusing on the 2015–16 triumph. In 2025, a docuseries deal further cements his status, exploring his journey from factory work to international acclaim and positioning him as a symbol of perseverance in modern football. Vardy's breakthrough has notably addressed previous gaps in scouting coverage by prompting clubs to intensify their focus on non-league talent, recognizing the wealth of overlooked potential in lower divisions. Following his rise, reports indicated a surge in scouts attending non-league matches, with clubs like and others investing more resources in this area to unearth similar gems, as Vardy's success validated the viability of such pathways. This shift, echoed by figures like Manchester United's , has democratized access to professional opportunities, fostering greater investment in and semi-professional levels.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Jamie Vardy had a prior relationship with Summers, with whom he shares a daughter, Ella, born in 2010. Vardy met Rebekah Nicholson in 2014 while she was working as a nightclub promoter in Preston; the couple began dating soon after and married on 25 May 2016 at in , in a ceremony attended by footballers and musicians including and Example. Together, Vardy and Rebekah have three biological children: daughter , born in 2014; son Finley, born in 2017; and daughter Olivia Grace, born in December 2019. Vardy's total of four biological children includes Ella from his earlier relationship, while Rebekah brings two stepchildren to the family— (born 2005) and Taylor (born 2010)—from her previous partnership with footballer . The family has frequently relocated in line with Vardy's career, including a move to in 2025 after his transfer to club Cremonese; they settled in the lakeside town of on , approximately 100 kilometers from Cremona, to accommodate his playing commitments while providing a family-friendly environment. The Vardys' personal life has drawn significant media attention, including a 2017 child maintenance dispute between Rebekah and her ex-partner , in which she successfully secured £225 per month in support for their son Taylor following a year-long legal battle overseen by the . Further scrutiny arose from Rebekah's high-profile 2022 libel case against —known as ""—stemming from allegations of media leaks, which Rebekah lost in a ruling that found Rooney's claims substantially true. Rebekah has been described as a key source of emotional support for Vardy, helping maintain his focus amid career pressures and contributing to his personal stability during pivotal moments, such as Leicester City's 2016 Premier League triumph. The couple has emphasized their blended family's role in shaping post-career plans, including potential returns to the after Vardy's time abroad.

Business and philanthropy

In 2015, Jamie Vardy launched the V9 Academy, an annual week-long program designed to scout and nurture talent by offering coaching, guidance, and trials at professional clubs. The initiative targeted overlooked players, mirroring Vardy's own path from non-league obscurity, and selected around 60 participants each year for intensive development. Notable success stories include , who became top scorer for in League Two after graduating and later joined Solihull Moors; , who advanced to Norwich City in the ; Alex Penny, who scored in an fourth-round match against West Ham United while at Harriers; and Ashley Nathaniel-George, who signed with and later played for Southend United. The academy operated successfully for several years before closing in 2020 due to funding challenges. Beyond football development, Vardy's business interests include his 2016 autobiography, From Nowhere, My Story, which chronicles his rise from factory work to Premier League stardom and became a bestseller. He has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, for which he wore custom boots during his breakout season, and Beats by Dre for audio products. In 2021, Vardy became a co-owner of Rochester New York FC, formerly the Rochester Rhinos, contributing to its rebranding and entry into MLS Next Pro; the club, however, folded after one season in 2023 amid financial difficulties, with reports later revealing Vardy's involvement was symbolic without financial investment. Vardy's philanthropic efforts emphasize giving back to underserved communities, particularly through youth initiatives like the V9 Academy, which provided opportunities for aspiring players from modest backgrounds. He and his wife, Rebekah, have supported the Don't Lose Hope charity in the , which delivers counselling and emotional support services to those in need. Drawing from his own challenges, including early career instability, Vardy has advocated for awareness in football, sharing insights in interviews to encourage open discussions among players.

Career statistics

Club statistics

Jamie Vardy's club career spans from to top-tier , accumulating over 690 appearances and more than 320 goals across all competitions. His progression reflects a remarkable journey, with significant contributions at each level, including 126 goals in non-league and Conference competitions before breaking into professional football. At higher levels, he has scored 190 goals in and equivalent top-flight matches, underscoring his adaptability and scoring prowess.

Breakdown by Club

The following table summarizes Vardy's appearances, goals, and assists by club, encompassing all competitions:
ClubYearsAppearancesGoalsAssists
Stocksbridge Park Steels2003–200610766-
2006–20094026-
Fleetwood Town2009–2012403417
Leicester City2012–202550020071
2025–720
Total-69432888
Data for early non-league clubs reflects league appearances primarily, with cups adding minor volume; professional stats include all competitions.

Progression by Level

Vardy's goal tally demonstrates his development across football tiers: over 100 goals in non-league and levels (, Halifax, and combined), transitioning to 38 goals in 98 appearances during Leicester's promotions, and 145 goals in 342 appearances. In cup competitions, he has added 25 goals across , , and European ties. His move to marks a new phase, building on this foundation.

Key Seasonal Statistics

Vardy's standout seasons highlight his peak performance, particularly in the Premier League. The table below focuses on league goals, assists, and approximate minutes played for select campaigns across major competitions:
SeasonClub/CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsMinutes Played (approx.)
2007–08Halifax Town / Northern Premier League2518-2,000
2011–12Fleetwood Town / National League3631173,000
2013–14Leicester City / Championship411663,200
2015–16Leicester City / Premier League362473,100
2019–20Leicester City / Premier League352372,800
2023–24Leicester City / Championship351822,500
2024–25Leicester City / Premier League35942,200
2025–26US Cremonese / Serie A720515
These figures emphasize his role as a primary goal threat, with career averages exceeding 0.45 goals per 90 minutes in top-flight play. Assists data is available primarily from 2012 onward. As of November 16, 2025, in the 2025–26 season with Cremonese, Vardy has made 7 appearances (5 starts), scoring 2 goals without assists, totaling 515 minutes played.

International statistics

Jamie Vardy represented the national team from 2015 to 2018, accumulating 26 caps and scoring 7 goals. His appearances spanned friendlies, qualifiers, qualifiers, and major tournaments. Vardy announced his retirement from international duty in August 2018 to focus on his club career with Leicester City. The following table lists all of Vardy's international appearances, including dates, opponents, results (from England's perspective), competition, and goals scored by him.
DateOpponentResultCompetitionGoals
7 June 20150–0Friendly0
5 September 20156–00
8 October 20152–00
12 October 20153–00
26 March 20163–2Friendly1
29 March 20162–1Friendly1
22 May 20162–1Friendly1
2 June 20160–1Friendly0
16 June 20162–11
20 June 20160–00
27 June 20161–20
8 October 20162–02018 FIFA World Cup qualifying0
11 November 20163–02018 FIFA World Cup qualifying0
15 November 20162–2Friendly1
22 March 20170–1Friendly0
26 March 20172–02018 FIFA World Cup qualifying1
1 September 20174–02018 FIFA World Cup qualifying0
10 November 20170–0Friendly0
14 November 20170–0Friendly0
23 March 20181–0Friendly0
27 March 20181–1Friendly1
7 June 20182–0Friendly0
24 June 20186–10
28 June 20180–10
3 July 20181–1 (4–3 pens)0
11 July 20181–2 (a.e.t.)0
Vardy's goals were scored across different match types: five in friendlies (against , , , , and ), one in (against ), and one in the (against ). He contributed assists in select matches, including one for Raheem Sterling's goal in the 2–0 win over . In major tournaments, Vardy featured in three matches at , scoring once against in the group stage. At the , he made four appearances across the group stage and knockout rounds, but did not score.

Honours

Club honours

Jamie Vardy's club career has been marked by several team successes across various levels of English football, where his goal-scoring prowess played a pivotal role in securing promotions and major trophies. With Park Steels, Vardy contributed to winning the Sheffield & Senior Cup in the 2008–09 season, a regional competition for non-league clubs in . At Fleetwood Town, he was instrumental in their promotion to the Football League by winning the Conference Premier title in the 2011–12 season, scoring 31 goals in 36 league appearances to finish as the competition's top scorer. Vardy's most notable achievements came with Leicester City, where he helped secure the EFL Championship title and promotion to the Premier League in the 2013–14 season, netting 16 goals in 37 league matches. He repeated this feat in the 2023–24 EFL Championship, leading the scoring charts with 20 goals across all competitions (18 in the league) as Leicester clinched the title and returned to the top flight. In the 2015–16 Premier League season, Vardy's 24 goals were crucial to Leicester's improbable title win, their first in the top division. Additionally, he scored four goals during Leicester's run to victory in the 2020–21 FA Cup, their first triumph in the competition.

Individual awards

Jamie Vardy has received numerous individual accolades throughout his career, highlighting his goal-scoring prowess and impact at various levels of English football. In the season, he was named the Player of the Season by the league's panel, recognizing his 24 goals and pivotal role in Leicester City's title win. He also won the Football Writers' Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year award for the same season, earning 36% of the votes from association members for his record-breaking performances. Additionally, Vardy received a special commendation from the (PFA) for achieving the longest scoring streak in history during that campaign. Vardy's most prominent scoring honor came in the 2019–20 Premier League season, when he clinched the Golden Boot with 23 goals, becoming the oldest player to win the award at age 33—a record certified by . Earlier in his career, during the 2011–12 Conference Premier season with Fleetwood Town, he secured the league's top scorer award with 31 goals, marking him as the first player to win both the Conference and Golden Boots. Among his notable records, Vardy holds the mark for the most consecutive matches with a goal, scoring in 11 straight games between August and November 2015, surpassing Ruud van Nistelrooy's previous record of 10. He has also been voted Leicester City Player of the Season on multiple occasions, including the 2015–16 and 2024–25 seasons, as selected by the club's supporters and players. In a milestone from his final season at Leicester City, Vardy scored his 200th goal for the club on May 18, 2025, in a 2–0 home win over Ipswich Town, capping a 13-year tenure with 200 goals in 500 appearances overall. Since joining club Cremonese on a free transfer in September 2025, Vardy has yet to receive any individual awards in the Italian league as of November 2025, though he scored his first goal for the team in October.

References

  1. https://www.skysports.com/jamie-vardy
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