May 9 – UEFA announced the winners of the 2025 FootbALL Awards at the RESPECT Forum in Zurich, recognising “outstanding contributions to inclusion, diversity, and accessibility” in European football.
This year’s recipients include the Ukrainian Association of Football, the Premier League, Everton FC, Liverpool FC, and former player and MEP Carolina Morace.
The Ukrainian Association of Football was honoured for its ‘League of the Mighty’ amputee football initiative, supporting veterans affected by war with access to training, community, and national competition.
The Premier League received recognition for its Community Captain Programme, launched in January to spotlight individuals using football to positively impact their communities.
Everton and Liverpool were jointly awarded for their swift, united response to racist abuse aimed at Abdoulaye Doucouré. The clubs issued a powerful joint statement and worked with authorities to identify perpetrators, reinforcing their zero-tolerance stance on discrimination.
Carolina Morace was acknowledged for her long-standing advocacy in and beyond football. Now a Member of the European Parliament and UEFA Football Board, she has championed gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights across sport and society.
The awards were selected by UEFA’s Human Rights Steering Group and reflect the core values of the FootbALL programme, which promotes equity and respect throughout the game.
Michele Uva, UEFA director of social & environmental sustainability, said: “The FootbALL Awards shine a light on organisations who use football as a force for good. We are proud to honour these exceptional winners, who remind us that the true impact of our game goes far beyond the pitch – it lies in its ability to unite, uplift, and create lasting change in our communities. Their commitment sets a powerful example for how football can drive meaningful change, both within the game and across society.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1746872034labto1746872034ofdlr1746872034owedi1746872034sni@g1746872034niwe.1746872034yrrah1746872034