Geoff Hurst – Age, Net Worth, 1966 Hat-Trick and Personal Life

Sir Geoffrey Charles Hurst MBE is an English former professional footballer who cemented his place in history as the only player to score a hat-trick in a men’s FIFA World Cup final. He is also the last surviving member of England’s victorious 1966 World Cup team.

Born in Ashton-under-Lyne on 8 December 1941, Hurst journey from a promising cricketer for Essex to a legendary striker for West Ham United is one of sporting versatility. His 1966 heroics, three goals against West Germany, remain a defining moment in English sport.

Beyond the pitch, Hurst built a successful career in business and insurance, became a sought-after speaker, and was knighted for his services to football. This article covers his age, height, net worth, family life, and the legacy of that unforgettable summer.

How old is Geoff Hurst?

Key insights about Sir Geoff Hurst

• Geoff Hurst remains the only men’s player to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup final.
• He was knighted in 1998 for his services to football.
• His club career spanned West Ham United, Stoke City, and West Bromwich Albion, among others.
• He briefly played cricket for Essex in 1962 before committing fully to football.
• He is actively involved in public speaking and charity work.
• Hurst rejected a £200,000 transfer offer from Manchester United in 1966.

Snapshot facts about Geoff Hurst

What is Geoff Hurst’s net worth?

Football earnings and business career

His football salary during his peak made him one of the highest-paid players in the UK. He notably rejected a £200,000 offer from Manchester United in 1966, a sum equivalent to approximately £3.3 million in 2025.

Post-football ventures

After retiring, Hurst co-founded a motor warranty business with teammate Martin Peters. He also built a successful 20-year career in insurance, a field he worked in until his retirement in 2002.

Estimated net worth

While an exact figure is not publicly confirmed, estimates place his net worth in the multi-million pound range. Sources suggest it could be between £5 million and £15 million, driven by his football career, business ventures, and speaking engagements.

What was Geoff Hurst’s role in the 1966 World Cup?

The match

On 30 July 1966, England faced West Germany at Wembley Stadium. Hurst scored three goals in a 4–2 victory, becoming the first and only player to achieve a hat-trick in a World Cup final.

The hat-trick

His first goal was a header in the 18th minute and his second was a powerful left-foot shot. The most famous and debated goal was the third, which hit the crossbar and bounced down. Despite controversy, the goal was awarded.

Legacy

Hurst performance secured England first World Cup title. He remains the last surviving member of that legendary starting eleven following the death of Sir Bobby Charlton in 2023.

Has Geoff Hurst written a book?

Yes, Sir Geoff Hurst has written several books about his life and career.

1966 and All That

Published in 2001 by Headline, this autobiography reflects on his life after football and the enduring impact of the 1966 World Cup.

Last Boy of ’66

Another popular work, Last Boy of ’66: My Story of England’s World Cup Winning Team, offers a deeper personal perspective on his teammates and the historic tournament.

Other publications

Goodreads lists 20 books associated with Geoff Hurst, including various editions and collaborations, with a total of 720 ratings across his author profile.

What is the timeline of Geoff Hurst life?

1. 1941: Born in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire.
2. 1959: Began professional career with West Ham United.
3. 1962: Briefly played cricket for Essex.
4. 1964: Won FA Cup with West Ham.
5. 1965: Won European Cup Winners’ Cup.
6. 1966: Scored hat-trick in World Cup final; England wins.
7. 1972: Moved to Stoke City.
8. 1976: Retired from professional playing.
9. 1998: Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.
10. 2004: Inducted into English Football Hall of Fame.

What is confirmed and what remains unclear about Geoff Hurst?

What is the legacy and context of Sir Geoff Hurst?

Geoff Hurst legacy extends far beyond his 49 caps and 24 goals for England. He symbolizes a golden era of English football. His consistent scoring ability for West Ham United, where he scored 242 goals in 500 appearances, demonstrates a career of high quality, not just a single moment of brilliance.

In modern times, he remains a highly respected figure, often speaking about leadership, teamwork, and excellence. He has been involved in grassroots football development, including a role as Director of Football for McDonald’s UK, which helped create thousands of new coaches.

What are the key sources and quotes?

“I think it had to be the defining moment of my life, without any shadow of a doubt.”

— Sir Geoff Hurst, on the 1966 World Cup final

“It nice to be remembered for something, but I don’t think anyone wants to be remembered for just one thing.”

— Sir Geoff Hurst, reflecting on his legacy

Key sources for this article include his Wikipedia entry, his profile on GetAPeTalk, and his speaker profile on Chartwell Speakers. Additional biographical data was sourced from IMDb and his author page on Goodreads. Recent local tributes were covered by BBC News, and his Hall of Fame induction is documented by the National Football Museum.

Summary of Sir Geoff Hurst life and career

Sir Geoff Hurst is an enduring icon of English football. From his historic hat-trick in 1966 to his successful business career and knighthood, his life reflects both sporting excellence and personal drive. He remains a celebrated figure in the sport. For more on English footballers, see David James – Net Worth, Career and Other Notable People.

Frequently asked questions about Geoff Hurst