Sporting Equals is the UK’s leading charity promoting race equality and equity in sport and physical activity. The organisation influence policies and create more inclusive environments. On Saturday 18 April 2026 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London they brought together some of the most influential voices in sport for an unforgettable evening at its 9th flagship Sporting Equals Awards ceremony.
Among the evening’s most prestigious honours were the Special Lifetime Achievement Awards, presented to Maggie Alphonsi and Roland Butcher. Both were recognised for their exceptional contributions to sport and their enduring impact in advancing equality and opportunity.
A standout moment of the night saw Maro Itoje named Sportsman of the Year for the second time. The accolade follows a historic milestone in his career, becoming the first Black player to captain the British & Irish Lions; a moment of profound significance for the sport and beyond.
It was also a landmark evening for Rugby Union, with Sadia Kabeya awarded Sportswoman of the Year, recognising her outstanding performances and continued contribution to the game.
The awards highlighted the breadth of talent and leadership across the sector, celebrating not only elite sporting success but also the vital work being undertaken at grassroots and community levels to break down barriers and create opportunities.
Acting CEO of Sporting Equals, Nik Trivedi, said:
“This was more than a celebration—it was a recognition of those who have led from the front, often in the face of adversity. Sporting trailblazers such as Roland Butcher and Maggie Alphonsi have opened doors for others and continue to inspire the next generation to step forward with confidence, ambition, and belief.”
Full List of Award Winners
1. Peloton Gamechanger Award – Joel Fearon
2. Flowhesion Young Sportsperson of the Year – Eva Okaro
3. Sporting Equals Lifetime Achievement Award – Roland Butcher
4. Sporting Equals Lifetime Achievement Award- Maggie Alphonsi MBE
5. The FA Community Champion of the Year- Salma Bi BEM
6. England Athletics Coach of the Year – Krumesh Patel
7. Sport England Community Sports Project of the Year – Tigers Engage
8. Swim England Aquatics Champion – Badu (Empowering Black Women Through Tri Programme)
9. LTA Tennis Foundation Community Tennis Award – Together Tennis CIC
10. Major Pro Kabaddi League Sportsman of the Year – Maro Itoje
11. The Voice Sportswoman of the Year – Sadia Kabeya MBE
12. Mind Wellbeing Award – Sporting Souls
