Carter, Eze and Iwobi named on Football Black ListMedia caption, Abuse totally devalues you as a human being – CarterPublished45 minutes agoEngland defender Jess Carter, Arsenal attacker Eberechi Eze and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi have been included on the Football Black List, external in recognition of their off-field contributions to the game.
The annual celebration, which began in 2008, recognises efforts and achievements of black figures working across football.
Carter was the target of racist abuse as England won Euro 2025, and the 28-year-old has been described by Football Black List organisers as “a powerful advocate for cultural change and accountability”.
Eze, 27, has been recognised for his foundation which is dedicated to empowering south London’s youth through education and sport.
Iwobi, 29, has his own project which supports underserved communities through football tournaments, mentorship programmes and initiatives.
The Football Black List features more women than men for the first time this year, and is compiled across nine categories.
Consultant and broadcaster Liz Ward, Oxford United captain Naomi Bedeau, coach and development co-ordinator Shakira Waithe and former BBC Sport journalist Jessica Creighton are also among the women included.
Co-founder Leon Mann stated: “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.”
Former Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City defender Kolo Toure, ex-Premier League player Nathan Dyer and Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada also make the list.
“There was a time when featuring a CEO of one of the biggest clubs in the world, alongside elite-level coaches, felt like a distant dream,” stated Mann. “In 2026, I now expect to see this.
“However, while progress has been made, there is still work to do to improve representation in leadership and coaching.”
The list is selected from nominations by a panel of experts, including representatives from the Premier League, Football Association, EFL, League Managers Association, Professional Footballers’ Association, refereeing body PGMOL and anti-discrimination campaign group Kick It Out.
