Celebrating Excellence. Inspiring Change. Driving Race Equity in Sport.
We are delighted to announce that the Sporting Equals Awards will take place on Saturday 18 April 2026 — a flagship event honouring athletes, leaders, community changemakers, and organisations who are transforming the landscape of sport and physical activity for ethnically diverse communities across Britain.
The Sporting Equals Awards remain a core pillar of our mission: to accelerate race equity, representation and inclusion at every level of the sporting system — from community sport to the elite pathway and the boardroom.
Viveen Taylor, Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Sport at Sport England, said:
“Sport England is proud to support the Sporting Equals Awards 2026. These awards provide a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of inspiring individuals and organisations making a real difference in sport and physical activity.
Sport has a unique power to unite and inspire communities, bringing people together for the greater good. Challenging inequality and creating inclusive environments where everyone can succeed and feel they belong is essential to getting more people active. This commitment sits at the heart of our strategy and our partnership with Sporting Equals.”
Nik Trivedi, Acting CEO of Sporting Equals, said:
“The Sporting Equals Awards are a celebration of excellence, courage and leadership from individuals and organisations who are helping to reshape sport for the better. As we look ahead to April 2026, these Awards will shine a spotlight on what is possible when sport chooses to be inclusive and, anti-racist. They are a part of our broader strategy and will shine a spotlight on individuals and organisations who are breaking down barriers, and championing meaningful cultural change. They are not simply a celebration — they are a call to action for the sector to go further and faster in creating inclusive, anti-racist environments where everyone can thrive.”
This year’s Awards will bring together system partners, governing bodies, community organisations, and trailblazers from across the UK. It will be a space for connection, learning, and inspiration, helping the sector reaffirm its commitment to diversity of leadership, equity of opportunity, and inclusion in practice.
“I am so excited for the Sporting Equals Awards, as it is an amazing evening bringing the whole community of sport together. With awards varying from grassroots and community impact, to the elite level, it would be absolutely amazing to see as many ethnically diverse players, clubs and officials being nominated for this year’s awards. I can’t wait to see you all there!” – Yemi Mary John, Sporting Equals Ambassador and Team GB Olympic Medallist
Get Involved — Attend, Partner, or Sponsor
We welcome system partners, organisations, and individuals to join us in celebrating and advancing race equity in sport. If you would like to:
- Attend the ceremony
- Host a table
- Sponsor an Award category
- Explore partnership opportunities
Please contact us at tmasih@sportingequals.org.uk to discuss how you can be part of this landmark event.
Together, let’s celebrate progress — and continue shaping a sporting sector where every community sees themselves represented, respected, and empowered.
