Rinus Michels

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Rinus Michels stands as a unique figure in football history, having been named Coach of the Century by FIFA in 1999, a distinction no other coach has matched. His influence extends beyond trophies; he fundamentally changed how the game is played, creating a legacy that endures through the tactical philosophies of modern giants like Pep Guardiola and Xavi Hernandez. The fact that he was ranked number one by France Football in 2019, decades after his last match, underscores the timeless nature of his contributions. His knighthood and induction into multiple halls of fame reflect the global recognition of his genius.

AwardsRinus Michels received numerous accolades both during his life and posthumously, recognizing his unparalleled impact on the game. He was named FIFA Coach of the Century in 1999 and the greatest post-war coach by The Times in 2007. In 2019, France Football ranked him number one in its list of the 50 best coaches of all time. He was knighted as an Officer in the Order of Orange-Nassau and inducted into the FIFA Hall of Fame and the Dutch Football Hall of Fame. He also received the UEFA President's Award and the Golden Ball for lifetime achievement from various football bodies.

Honours & Distinctions

Officer in the Order of Orange-Nassau

Dutch Government·1999

Knighted for his contributions to football and society

FIFA Hall of Fame

FIFA·2004

Inducted as a coach for his legendary status

Dutch Football Hall of Fame

KNVB·2005

Recognized as a key figure in Dutch football history

Rankings & Lists

50 Best Coaches of All Time

France Football·2019

Coach of the Century

FIFA·1999

Greatest Post-War Coach

The Times·2007

Records & Feats

Coach of the Century

Historic First·1999

Named the best coach of the 20th century by FIFA in 1999

Euro 1988 Victory

Career Milestone·1988

Led the Netherlands to their only major international trophy

European Cup Winner

Box Office·1971

First Dutch club to win the European Cup with Ajax in 1971