Arsenal's Raheem Sterling and Chelsea's Lauren James have been recognized on the 2024 Football Black List, which celebrates influential black figures in British football. This annual event, which started in 2008, highlights the contributions of black individuals across various roles within the sport.

Joining Sterling and James on the esteemed list are Aston Villa's Tyrone Mings, Tottenham Hotspur's Richarlison, and QPR's Kasha Petit. The coaching category features notable names like Nottingham Forest's head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, Port Vale's Darren Moore, and former England international Ashley Cole, who is currently an assistant coach for the England Under-21 team.

Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating it underscores the positive impact of black communities in football while also addressing the ongoing underrepresentation of black individuals in leadership and decision-making roles within the sport. The list aims to celebrate achievements while urging the industry to confront these disparities with urgency.

The Football Black List categorizes honorees across several areas, including players, coaching and management, administration, and community and grassroots initiatives. This year’s inclusion reflects not just individual accomplishments but also the collective efforts toward promoting diversity and inclusion within football.