Sir Billy Boston honoured by Wigan Warriors with spectacular celebration
Wigan Warriors paid a powerful and emotional tribute to club legend Sir Billy Boston on Friday evening (11 July), with a spectacular pre-match ceremony ahead of their Super League clash against Huddersfield Giants at the Brick Community Stadium.
Sir Billy, 90, joined by his wife Joan, rolled into the stadium in a classic vintage car, greeted by cheering fans and club chairman Professor Chris Brookes—a fitting entrance for rugby league’s first knight.
The centrepiece of the ceremony saw Sir Billy seated on a specially designed throne in front of a giant banner bearing his image which had been unfurled across the newly renamed Sir Billy Boston East Stand.
Sir Billy was joined by former Wigan teammates Ray Ashby, Colin Clarke and Frankie Parr, and the current Wigan Warriors team posed for a special photo with the trio just before kick-off to a standing ovation from all four stands at the Brick.
Fans were also treated to a unique commemorative release by Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls, who created a limited-edition tin featuring Sir Billy’s image. The collectible tin perfectly captured the sense of pride felt across Wigan.
Speaking ahead of the match, Wigan Warriors Chief Executive Kris Radlinski described Sir Billy Boston as a cultural icon.
“He’s a cultural icon in rugby league and lights up the whole stadium. To be there and see his face as he walked out having been knighted is something I’ll never forget.”
Sir Billy Boston’s remarkable career saw him score 478 tries in 487 games for Wigan between 1953 and 1970. Beyond those numbers, his impact on the sport—and the town—remains unmatched.
Knighted by the King and our favourite adopted Wiganer, Sir Billy Boston’s legacy shines brighter than ever.
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