'Matt you can be Mayor of Wolverhampton ... for a day' says real first citizen

The 31-year-old, who grew up in the city, became the joint most decorated male European athlete of all-time as he claimed a third individual title on his home track at Alexander Stadium in front of delight Team GB fans, his family and friends.

Hudson-Smith saw off the challenge of his rivals down the home straight to cross the finish line first, before climbing into the stand which has been named in his honour to celebrate his momentous victory. He then said in jest that he would now be setting sights on becoming “Mayor of Birmingham and Wolverhampton” after his brilliant gold medal run of a lap of his home club track.

In response Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Paul Singh, said: "Huge congratulations to Matt for becoming European champion. Once again, he has done himself, his family and Wolverhampton proud on the international stage."

"I was delighted to hear Matt say he would like to be Mayor of Wolverhampton one day. While I am not quite ready to give up the chains of office just yet, I would be more than happy to welcome him home and hand over the mayoral responsibilities... for a day."

"Matt is one of our city's greatest sporting ambassadors and an inspiration to young people across Wolverhampton. He's another example of our city shining on the international stage, he embodies my motto of Through Sport We Grow' and I could not be prouder of him.

“We look forward to celebrating his latest success and giving him the warm welcome he deserves when he's back in his home city."

Bilston-born boxing champion Ben Whittaker was honoured by the city council when he was made Mayor for the Day following his light-heavyweight 202O Tokyo Olympic silver medal win against winner Arlen Lopez held in 2021 due to the coronavirus period.