The Football Black List returned in style on 14 April 2026, as leaders from across football, business and entertainment gathered at the QEII Centre in Westminster to celebrate Black excellence and influence within the game.
Some of football’s most recognisable figures were among those honoured on the night. Premier League stars Eberechi Eze and Alex Iwobi featured alongside Lioness Jess Carter, Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada, and Manchester City assistant coach Kolo Touré.
A number of major awards were presented to individuals making a significant impact both on and off the pitch. Stormzy and Shaka Hislop received the Keith Alexander Award, with Stormzy recognised for his work through Merky FC and Hislop honoured for his long-standing commitment to tackling discrimination through Show Racism the Red Card. Michelle Agyemang was also recognised, receiving the Cyrille Regis Award following her standout performances at the UEFA Women’s European Championship, where she played a key role in England successfully defending their title.
One of the most inspiring moments of the night was the presentation of the inaugural Joe Thompson Legacy Award to Brighton & Hove Albion academy player Jeriah Boateng. The 12-year-old was recognised for his resilience after experiencing racist abuse, and for responding by writing Back In Time, a powerful story created to support other young people facing similar challenges.
Hosted by Ade Oladipo and Jeanette Kwakye, the event closed with a special live performance from the House Gospel Choir, bringing a fitting end to an evening centred on recognition, reflection and inspiration.
This year’s star-studded list again reflected an increase in representation from across all genders and levels of football, to the delight of the event’s co-founders.
“I am absolutely delighted to see more women than men on this year’s Football Black List,” said Leon Mann.
“Black women often face significant barriers in sport and society, so this recognition is a testament to their talent and resilience. I hope their visibility inspires future generations.”
Rodney Hinds added: “Once again, the Football Black List highlights outstanding individuals making a real impact. Congratulations to everyone recognised, as well as those nominated.”
Football Black List 2025 Honourees
LGBTQ+
Liz Ward, Consultant
Players Off The Pitch
Naomi Bedeau, Oxford United Women and Grenada
Jess Carter, Gotham FC and England
Alex Iwobi, Fulham and Nigeria
Shakira Waithe, Enfield Town
Eberechi Eze, Arsenal and England
Coaching and Management
Carly Williams, Brentford Women
Kolo Touré, Manchester City
Justin Cochrane, England men’s team
Nicole Farley, West Ham
Simon Mesfin, Lillestrom Director of Football
Commercial
Bree Sesay, Sid Lee Sport
Sechaba Ntsiu, EA SPORTS
Milena Mesfin, Fredrikstaad FC
David Lynam, Kaizen Ticketing Solutions
Nathan Dyer, Agent
Practitioners
Celeste Stevens, Reading FC
Martin Sinclair, Disability Football Collective
Kerris Dunn, Premier League
Martin Ingham-Griffith, Foundation 92
Peter Augustine, The FA
Ugo Ehiogu Ones to Watch
Daniel Jinadu, Beyond Football
Charlotte Akster, Notts County Foundation
Naythan Din-Kiriuki, Aston Villa
Rhianna Blake, Switched On Media
Mia Lazaro, Freelance events consultant
Lord Ouseley Leaders
Jessica Creighton, FA Women’s National League Board
Imani Esmaail, Wrexham AFC
Debra Nelson, WSL Board
Omar Berrada, Manchester United
Paul Elliott, Charlton Athletic
Media
Sirayah Shiraz, DAZN and PLP
Emerson Bargao, Benchviews TV
Chris Reidy, Sky Sports
Karel Prince, HMRC of Football
Reece Bedford, Arsenal
Barclays Community and Grassroots
Jude Geoghegan, Estudiantes
Aura Chacon, Leicester City in the Community
Esther Elias, EOE Collective
Cheryl Amatrading, Antoin Akpom Achievements Foundation
Kafele Morgan, Kick Action Academy
