The investiture took place on January 14, 2026, at Windsor Castle, highlighting Bright's OBE as a rare opportunity given her club and international schedule.

Bright debuted for England in 2016 and has featured in four major tournaments, including starting as a defender with four clean sheets at Euro 2022.

Bright described feeling surprised, humbled, and motivated to continue contributing to football, emphasizing her upbringing in Killamarsh and the value of giving back through the sport.

She said the royal honour personalizes her journey and motivates ongoing contributions to the sport.

Bright attended the ceremony with family members, including her parents, grandmother, sister (pregnant), and her agent, underscoring the personal importance of the moment.

On the same day, philanthropist and Oldham Athletic owner Frank Rothwell was also recognised for helping the club return to the EFL.

Prince William asked Bright about the transfer window and her well-being after knee injuries, expressing genuine support for women’s football.

Bright’s international career includes 88 England caps, captaining the Lionesses to the 2023 World Cup final, and retiring to prioritise health ahead of Euro 2025.

During the Windsor ceremony, Bright said she no longer feels like a fraud with the OBE and expressed gratitude for the honour, supported by family and her agent.

Bright noted that busy schedules and Champions League commitments often conflicted with honours events, but she prioritized receiving the royal honour on this occasion.

Chelsea defender and former England captain Millie Bright skipped a Chelsea training session to attend an investiture at Windsor Castle, where she was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Prince William.

Bright cited clashes with prior ceremony dates and important matches as the reason for missing Chelsea's training, marking the first time she missed in her club career for an honour.