Jamaican-born Arsenal forward Raheem Sterling and Chelsea star Lauren James have been named among the five most influential black footballers in Britain, earning spots on the prestigious Football Black List for 2024.
Joining Sterling and James on the player list are Aston Villa and England defender Tyrone Mings, Tottenham Hotspur’s Brazilian forward Richarlison, and QPR Women’s standout Kasha Petit.
Now in its 16th year, the Football Black List is an annual celebration that highlights the achievements of influential black individuals making significant contributions to the sport, both on and off the pitch. First established in 2008, the list spans eight categories, including coaching, media, administration, and grassroots development.
Sterling, who was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and moved to England at age five, has long been an outspoken advocate for equality and representation in football. He continues to make waves not just for his performances but for his leadership on social issues. James, one of the brightest young talents in the women’s game, has emerged as a key player for both Chelsea and the England Lionesses, with her dynamic style of play and off-the-pitch influence inspiring a new generation.
Nottingham Forest’s Nuno Espirito Santo and Port Vale boss Darren Moore were recognised in the coaching and management category, alongside England Under-21 assistant head coach Ashley Cole, Watford Women’s Renee Hector, and Arsenal Women’s U21 coach Carly Williams.
Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, hailed the importance of the initiative in drawing attention to both the successes and the continuing challenges faced by black professionals in the game.
“The Football Black List once again serves as a reminder of the incredible impact black communities are making in football,” said Mann.
"It is also vital that while we celebrate the exceptional people on the list, we recognise the ongoing underrepresentation of black people away from playing – in the boardrooms, dugouts and leadership teams across the game. We must take this challenge on with urgency.”
Other notable honourees across the categories include:
Maria Tavares (Manchester United) in practitioners
Lola Ogunbote (Burnley) and Fleur Robinson (Burton Albion) in administration
Darren Lewis (Sports Journalists' Association) and Courtney Sweetman-Kirk (Sky Sports) in media
Jahmal Howlett-Mundle (Sevenoaks Town FC) in the LGBTQI+ award
Kelechi Okorie (UEFA) and Helena Scotland (England Futsal) among the Ugo Ehiogu Ones to Watch
The Football Black List remains a powerful tool for advocacy and recognition, amplifying the voices and visibility of black excellence in a sport that continues to evolve both on the field and in its leadership spaces.