England defender Millie Bright has announced her decision to retire from international football.
Bright helped England win the 2022 European Championship, playing in all seven matches en route to the title.
She also captained the Lionesses during Leah Williamson’s absence at the 2023 World Cup and led the team to the final, where they narrowly lost to Spain.
The 32-year-old made her international debut in September 2016 and went on to win 88 caps while scoring six goals – England never lost a match in which she scored.
She opted to miss the European Championships this summer as England defended their title and ruled themselves out of the squad for Sarina Wiegman’s squad, saying she would not be able to “give 100% mentally or physically”.
“The reality of wearing the Three Lions over the past decade has exceeded even my wildest dreams,” said Bright.
“It has been extremely special for me and I wish it could last forever. However, in football, all good things come to an end and with that I have decided to retire from international football.”
“For me personally, it is a decision I have made to ensure that I can fully commit to my club football and give Chelsea everything they need from me.
9 years. 88 hats. Endless memories.
Millie Bright has announced her retirement from international football.
Congratulations on a great one #Lionesses career, Millie!
— Lionesses (@Leeuwinnen) October 13, 2025
“I always want to leave an environment and team in a better place than I found it, so what better time to step aside and let the next generation of Lionesses come through after what they accomplished this summer. I know they will achieve even greater things in the years to come, and I will be their biggest fan.”
“To all my teammates, coaches, staff, friends, family and of course the fans, thank you. Your faith and support have meant the world to me and is something I will cherish forever.”
Bright was also part of the England squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2017 European Championship and the 2019 World Cup.
She also won the Arnold Clark Cup with the Lionesses in 2022 and 2023.
“Millie will forever be an English legend for what she gave to her country, and I could never run out of words to praise her impact in my time,” Wiegman said of Bright.
“Whether she wore the armband or not, she is a true leader. I know how much respect Millie has within the game – not just because she has won so many trophies, but also because of the way she conducts herself.”
“She has made such a huge contribution to English football, both on and off the pitch, and we all owe her a lot.
“While her playing days with the Lionesses may be over, I know she has so much more to offer the game.”
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