Is Geoff Hurst still alive? Where does Geoff Hurst live?

Geoff Hurst, a legendary figure in English football, continues to capture the imaginations of fans around the world. With the recent passing of Bobby Charlton, Hurst is now the last surviving Englishman who played in the iconic 1966 World Cup final. But is Geoff Hurst still alive? And where does he call home now?

A Football Hero:

Born on December 8, 1941, in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, Geoff Hurst’s illustrious football career has solidified his place in history. His incredible feat of scoring a hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final, helping England secure a memorable 4-2 victory over West Germany, remains one of the most celebrated moments in football history. This accomplishment stands unchallenged, even by the likes of Kylian Mbappé, who scored a World Cup final hat-trick in 2022 but didn’t claim the title.

Hurst began his career with West Ham United, where he scored an impressive 242 goals in 500 first-team appearances. During his tenure with the club, West Ham clinched the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965. However, in 1972, he made a move to Stoke City for a transfer fee of £80,000. His time with Stoke included an appearance in the Watney Cup in 1973.

The later years of Hurst’s Football League career were with West Bromwich Albion, before embarking on international football adventures, playing for Cork Celtic in Ireland and the Seattle Sounders in the USA. His commitment to the game extended into coaching and management roles, including a two-year stint as Chelsea’s manager from 1979 to 1981.

International Stardom:

Hurst’s impact extended beyond the club level; he made 49 appearances for the English national team, scoring 24 goals in total. He made his senior debut for England in 1966 against West Germany and went on to represent his country in prestigious events like the UEFA Euro 1968 and the 1970 FIFA World Cup. His goals for England, including a memorable hat-trick in the World Cup final, made him a national hero.

Life Beyond Football:

Geoff Hurst’s life isn’t solely defined by his football achievements. He had a brief cricket career and played one first-class match for Essex in 1962. His commitment to both sports showcases his love for athletic pursuits.

Hurst was born into a football-loving family. His father, Charlie Hurst, was a professional footballer himself, and the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. The Hurst family’s move to Chelmsford, Essex, when Geoff was just six years old, played a significant role in shaping his future.

He also enjoyed a brief managerial career, taking charge of clubs like Telford United and Chelsea. Even after retiring from the managerial role, he continued to stay connected with the game he loved.

Geoff Hurst’s life wasn’t without its challenges. He had to cope with personal losses, including the tragic death of his daughter Claire in 2010 after a decade-long battle with a brain tumor. His brother Robert also faced a tragic end, having died by suicide in 1974.

In recent times, Hurst has shown his commitment to advancing medical research by offering to donate his brain for dementia research, echoing the concerns surrounding the health of his 1966 World Cup-winning teammates who had suffered from the disease.

And now, to answer the initial questions: Is Geoff Hurst still alive? Yes, he is indeed alive, and his legendary status remains intact. Where does Geoff Hurst live? Currently, he resides in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with his wife, Judith, whom he has been married to since 1964. Their enduring partnership is a testament to the strength of character that made Geoff Hurst a football icon.

With the passing of his fellow World Cup winner, Sir Bobby Charlton, Geoff Hurst carries on as the last Englishman standing from that iconic 1966 World Cup final. His enduring presence serves as a reminder of that historic moment in football history, and his contributions to the sport continue to be celebrated and cherished by fans worldwide.