The Football Black List made a powerful return this year with a special celebration at the iconic Emirates Stadium, proudly supported by the Premier League. The event celebrated, recognised, and honoured Black achievement across the football industry, from grassroots initiatives to the elite level.
Co-founded by Leon Mann MBE and Rodney Hinds, the Football Black List exists to highlight and showcase the most influential Black individuals working across British football.
The evening was hosted by ESPN broadcaster Alexis Nunes and leading comedian Eddie Kadi, who brought energy and humour to a night full of inspiration and impact.
Football legends Ashley Cole and Yaya Touré were among the many notable guests in attendance, both taking to the stage to present awards and contribute to the evening’s atmosphere of pride and celebration.
Leon Mann MBE said: “The Football Black List is a celebration of Black people working across the game. There is underrepresentation that exists in the dugout, the boardroom and in different areas. We amplify the brilliant people that we have toshow the pathways into the game.”
Discussing the support of the Premier League, Rodney Hinds said: “When the Premier League started supporting us, a lot of people couldn’t believe it was happening — the biggest league in the world. And without that support I don’t think we probably would have moved so quickly.”
To kick off the evening a tribute film to Lord Herman Ouseley, founder of Kick It Out, was shown and received warm applause in recognition of the incredible contribution he made to the Black community and the game. It was announced that the Administration section of the list will now become the Lord Ouseley Leaders category.
One of the evening’s other most powerful moments also came early in the show, with the presentation of the prestigious Keith Alexander Award to actor and activist Idris Elba. The Hollywood star was recognised for his outstanding contribution to the Black community and football, particularly his work around tackling knife crime and his involvement in Arsenal’s ‘No More Red’ campaign. “Football is so important in this country; it’s the one time everyone is unified,” Elba said during his acceptance speech, emphasising how football can drive meaningful social change beyond the pitch.
Football stars such as Lauren James of Chelsea and England, and Kasha Petit of QPR, were recognised in the ‘Players – Off the Pitch’ category for their work beyond football. On stage, Petit spoke about the importance of “diversifying the pathway” for young girls in the game. Other winners in the category included Premier League players Tyrone Mings, Richarlison, and Raheem Sterling MBE, whose efforts show a commitment to their communities and to inspiring change in the sport.
Other awards recognising outstanding contributions to the Black community included the Cyrille Regis Award, which this year was presented to Manchester City and Jamaica striker Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw. She was honoured for her courage and leadership in standing up against racist abuse, with her actions shining a light on the continuing fight against discrimination in football.
Renée Hector, head coach of Watford Women; Carly Williams, coach of Arsenal Women U21; and Ashley Cole, assistant head coach of England U21, were celebrated in the ‘Coaching and Management’ category. Hector shared her journey transitioning from player to coach, highlighting the dedication it took to succeed in a new role.
Mary Phillip, who made history in 2006 as the first Black player to captain the England women’s team, received an award for her trailblazing work in the women’s game — a legacy that continues to open doors for future generations.
The Ugo Ehiogu ‘Ones to Watch’ awards honoured rising Black talent making waves in the football industry. This year’s recipients included Helena Scotland, Kelechi Okorie, Mina Ibrahim, Nakeira Westmaas, and Paul Gialo — all recognised for their promise and positive influence in shaping the future of football.
The event also highlighted the importance of intersectionality. Jahmal Howlett-Mundle, footballer for Sevenoaks Town FC, received an LGBTQIA+ award for his advocacy and efforts challenging homophobia in football. Martin Sinclair was honoured for his work to increase disability representation in the game.
The final award of the evening was a tribute to the late Kevin Campbell, recognising the former Arsenal and Everton striker’s enduring impact on football. The award was presented to his family, by former Premier League winning Captain, Wes Morgan, bringing the ceremony to a heartfelt close.
The celebration was energised by live music, opening with a performance by rapper and singer Enny, who delivered a rousing rendition of “Peng Black Girls.” Fittingly, the night closed with Bashy’s powerful performance of “Black Boys,” creating a full-circle tribute to Black identity and achievement across genders. Mimi Rich and DJ AG provided the evening’s musical backdrop with live sets as guests networked and celebrated achievements.
Since its founding in 2008, the Football Black List has grown into one of the most anticipated nights in the football calendar: a space to uplift and inspire generations, showcasing excellence and paying tribute to those who break barriers and pave the way for others. With each passing year, the initiative continues to shine a light on Black achievement and promises to inspire future generations to come.
