Leeds Sports Awards 2026: Time to nominate your sporting heroes for return of annual awards
Sporting heroes are set to take the spotlight once again as nominations are open for the Leeds Sports Awards 2026.
Organisers are calling on the city to recognise athletes, volunteers, clubs and organisations who made sport in the city shine throughout 2025.
Now in its 23rd year, the awards celebrate not only elite performers competing on national and international stages, but also the grassroots champions who make sport possible every day in local parks, schools and clubs.
A total of 15 awards will be presented, with the public being invited to nominate in 13 categories ahead of a glittering ceremony at the Carriageworks Theatre on Thursday, May 14.
Coun Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Leeds continues to produce athletes competing with distinction at every level.
“The Leeds Sports Awards are a brilliant way to celebrate the talent, dedication and passion that makes Leeds such a great sporting city.”
2025 saw Leeds host major events including Ironman Leeds and the return of the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, alongside a year-round calendar of competitions, community initiatives and participation opportunities across a huge range of sports.
Behind every finish line, fixture and training session are the people who give their time, talent and energy to keep Leeds moving.
Rob Wadsworth, head of Sport Leeds, said: “The Leeds Sports Awards is about celebrating the people who make sport happen, from athletes achieving incredible things, to the volunteers, clubs and coaches who support others to take part.
“2025 was a brilliant year for Leeds, and these awards give us the chance to recognise those at the heart of it.”
Categories include:
- Athletes of the City
- Young Disability Sportsperson (under 18)
- Disability Sportsperson
- Young Sportsperson (under 18)
- Sportsperson
- Beacons of the City
- School Achievement
- Sports Volunteer
- Community Coach
- Community Club
- Student Sport Champion(s)
- Champions of the City
- Inspirational Community Champion
- Sustainability Award
- Performance Coach
- Performance Team/Club
- Sporting Pride of Leeds sponsored
Nominations are open now at sportleeds.org/sportleedsawards and close on Sunday, February 22.