Wigan Council renames Believe Square to honor Sir Billy Boston

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 5:37 AM

Last updated Sep 11, 2026

Wigan Council renames Believe Square to honor Sir Billy Boston
Summary

Wigan Council has renamed Believe Square in Wigan to Sir Billy Boston Square in memory of the late rugby league star. The decision honors the legacy of the former Wigan winger, who died last month at the age of 92. A statue of Boston has stood in the square since 2016, and the town also recently added a plaque to the site following his knighthood in 2025. Boston, a Cardiff native, joined Wigan in 1953 and recorded 478 tries over 488 appearances for the club. He was the first black British player to tour Australia and New Zealand as part of the Great Britain side. Officials stated the renaming is intended to ensure future generations learn about his career and his role in breaking barriers for black athletes in sport.

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By the Numbers
  • Wigan Council renamed Believe Square to Sir Billy Boston Square.
  • Boston scored 478 tries for Wigan in 488 games.
  • A statue of the rugby league icon remains at the site.
  • Boston was the first black British rugby league player to tour Australia and New Zealand.
Latest Updates
  • 5:37 AMYahoo SportsCouncil names square after Sir Billy Boston
What they're saying
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Sir Billy Boston was "a pioneer" and "an inspiration" and his legacy will continue, Wigan Council says.

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