SHEIN Women's Football Awards 2026: A Glamorous Celebration of Women's Football
The SHEIN Women's Football Awards are set to make a spectacular return on May 7, 2026, promising an evening that blends elite sport with showbiz sparkle. This prestigious event, now recognized as the biggest celebration of its kind in Europe, will bring together top players, celebrity fans, and industry figures to honor those driving the sport forward.
Star-Studded Shortlist and High-Profile Backing
TV favorite Alex Scott leads a star-packed shortlist, with numerous heroes from the England women's national football team also in contention. The awards have garnered significant support from football legend David Beckham, who expressed his enthusiasm for the women's game. Beckham stated, 'It's been incredible to see the growth of the women's game over the years and we love cheering on the Lionesses in our house. These awards celebrate the very best in the game both on and off the pitch.'
The ceremony will be hosted by Gabby Logan alongside Jamie Carragher, ensuring a dynamic and engaging presentation. Previous winners include notable players such as Alessia Russo and Mary Earps, with Lionesses stars once again dominating this year's nominations.
SHEIN's Continued Partnership and Fashion Influence
Global fashion giant SHEIN returns as the headline partner, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the fast-growing event. The brand will play a key role in styling both stars and grassroots players for the big night, highlighting the intersection of football and fashion. Shihong Liu, Director of Europe Markets at SHEIN, commented, 'We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with the Women's Football Awards. Women's football is one of the fastest-growing and most exciting sports in the world, and it plays such an important role in inspiring the next generation. We're honoured to support the game and celebrate the incredible athletes and community behind it.'
Comprehensive Award Categories and Nominations
The awards feature a wide range of categories, celebrating excellence across various aspects of the sport. Key categories include:
- Player of the Year: Nominees such as Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Bunny Shaw (Manchester City), and Vivianne Miedema (Manchester City).
- Young Player of the Year: Featuring talents like Tōko Koga (Tottenham Hotspur) and Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City).
- International Player of the Year: Including stars like Alèxia Putellas (Barcelona) and Linda Caicedo (Real Madrid).
- Club of the Year: With contenders such as Manchester City, Wrexham, and London City Lionesses.
- Media Figure of the Year: Nominees like Kelly Cates, Karen Carney MBE, and Alex Scott MBE.
- Best Marketing Campaign: Highlighting initiatives from brands like Sports Direct, AXA, and Adidas.
- Best Grassroots Initiative: Recognizing programs from Liverpool FA, Tottenham Hotspur Foundation, and McDonald's.
- Brand of the Year: Featuring Lucozade Sport, Adidas, and Nike.
- Best Social Media: With entries from Juventus, The FA – Lionesses, and Chelsea.
- Global Impact Award: Nominees include PlayStation, VisitMalta, and Adidas.
- Best Fan Engagement: Highlighting efforts from Disney+, EA Sports, and Chelsea.
- Legal Team of the Year: Featuring firms like Linklaters and RPC.
- Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility Award: With contenders such as Admiral, Lidl, and Adobe.
- Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Award: Recognizing Arsenal, EEPixel FC Academy, and The FA.
- Community Impact Award: Featuring Sunderland, Bristol City, and London City Lionesses.
- Football Business of the Year: Nominees include ORRECO, Mercury13, and EA Sports.
- Football Agency of the Year: With agencies like Wasserman and CAA SPORTS.
- Football Business Trailblazer: Honoring individuals such as Kay Cossington and Aki Mandhar.
- Best Breakthrough Business: Featuring E.l.f Beauty, Modibodi, and Mercedes-Benz UK.
- EU Women's Football Champion: Recognizing figures like Rose Read and Nadine Kessler.
- Game Changer Award: Nominees include Rachel Yankey OBE and Kelly Smith MBE.
- Off The Pitch Award: Honoring contributors such as Stephen Lansdown CBE and Bethan Woolley.
The Significance of the Event
As women's football continues its rapid rise in popularity and influence, the SHEIN Women's Football Awards serve as a pivotal platform to celebrate achievements and inspire future generations. With football, fashion, and fame set to collide, the countdown is on for one of the most glamorous nights in the sporting calendar, highlighting the sport's growing impact and community spirit.
