Former Premier League manager marries Lucy Pinder after 18 months of dating

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 15/02/2026

- 10:04

Russell Martin previously managed Southampton and has been without a job since leaving Rangers earlier this season

Russell Martin has married former glamour model Lucy Pinder in a surprise ceremony that marks a new chapter for the ex-Premier League manager.

The couple sealed their wedding with a kiss as friends and family looked on, 18 months after they first went public with their romance.


Pinder stunned in a classic white gown, while Martin cut a sharp figure in a tailored suit as they exchanged vows.

Their relationship first came to light in August 2024, when Pinder confirmed they were together.

The pair had grown close during Martin’s spell at Southampton, with sightings of them together fuelling speculation before they officially acknowledged their romance.

They were photographed side by side when Martin received an honorary degree from Brighton University and later attracted attention at a Sky Sports social event, signalling that their relationship had moved into the spotlight.

Martin, 40, was previously married to Jasmine, the mother of his three children.

Russell Martin Lucy Pinder

Russell Martin and Lucy Pinder first started dating in August 2024

|

INSTAGRAM

Following their separation, he found love again with Pinder, and the relationship has flourished steadily since.

Pinder first rose to fame in the early 2000s as one of Britain’s most recognisable glamour models before transitioning into television work.

She later appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, expanding her profile beyond modelling.

Five facts about the Premier LeagueFive facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWS

Martin’s career has been defined by football.

As a player, he represented clubs including Wycombe Wanderers, Norwich City and Milton Keynes Dons, as well as enjoying a loan spell at Rangers.

On the international stage, he earned 29 caps for Scotland before moving into management.

His first managerial post came at Stadium MK with MK Dons, where his possession-based philosophy began to attract attention.

A subsequent role at Swansea City further enhanced his reputation before he was appointed head coach of Southampton.

Martin guided Southampton back to the Premier League but was later dismissed.

Russell MartinRangers sacked Russell Martin after just 17 games in charge | PA

His next challenge came north of the border when Rangers, following a takeover by 49ers Enterprises, handed him the reins in a bid to usher in a new era.

However, the stint proved short-lived.

Failure to secure Champions League qualification and a run of poor league form left Rangers languishing in eighth place.

Martin was sacked after just 17 matches in charge, bringing a turbulent chapter to an abrupt end.

Now awaiting his next opportunity in management, Martin has been linked with several vacant roles in recent months but is yet to return to the dugout.