Karen Carney Wins Prestigious 2026 Legends of Football Award
Former Lioness and Strictly Come Dancing champion Karen Carney has expressed her profound gratitude after being announced as a recipient of the coveted 2026 Legends of Football award. The Solihull-born football icon will be honoured at a glittering ceremony later this year, sharing the spotlight with French football legend Thierry Henry.
A Storied Career Recognised
Karen Carney, who retired from professional football in 2019, remains one of England's most decorated female footballers. With an impressive 144 caps for the Lionesses, she stands as the third most-capped player in England women's football history. Her career spanned multiple British clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea, and she continues to be a passionate supporter of Birmingham City, her beloved Blues.
Since hanging up her boots, Carney has transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, appearing regularly on Sky Sports and BBC platforms. Her versatility was further demonstrated in 2025 when she triumphed on Strictly Come Dancing alongside professional partner Carlos Gu, showcasing her talents beyond the football pitch.
Charity Event Supporting Music Therapy
The award ceremony will take place on Monday, October 5, 2026 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London. The event is organised to benefit Nordoff and Robbins, a music therapy charity that helps children and young people with profound learning difficulties connect and communicate through music.
Speaking about her recognition, Carney said: "I'm absolutely honoured to receive this year's Legends of Football Award. I'm incredibly humbled to be recognised alongside some of the true greats of the women's game including former Lioness teammates Jill Scott, Ellen White and Fara Williams."
She added: "Evenings like this play a huge role in helping Nordoff and Robbins improve people's lives and I'm really looking forward to celebrating and supporting the wonderful work they do."
Sharing the Honour with Thierry Henry
Carney will receive her award alongside Thierry Henry, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Premier League history and a French football icon. Henry expressed his own honour at the recognition, stating: "I am incredibly honoured to be receiving the 2026 Legends of Football award. Football has given me so much, and this recognition means a great deal to me."
The French legend emphasised the charitable aspect of the evening, noting: "I'm very proud to be part of such a special evening celebrating football and music, all in support of Nordoff and Robbins. Their work is vital in helping children and young people with profound learning difficulties to connect and communicate through music."
Chairman's Praise for Both Legends
Legends of Football Chairman Peter Leathem OBE praised both recipients, describing Thierry Henry as "without doubt, a Premier League legend and, for many, the greatest player the league has ever seen." He highlighted Henry's generational influence and his inspiration to young players across multiple generations.
Regarding Carney, Leathem stated: "Karen Carney stands as a true stalwart of the women's game. With an outstanding 144 caps for the Lionesses, her career is a testament to longevity and excellence at the highest level."
He emphasised her role in women's football development, noting: "Competing in four World Cups and European Championships, both internationally and domestically, Karen has played a vital role in the growth and evolution of the women's game."
The dual recognition of these football icons represents a significant moment for the sport, celebrating excellence across both men's and women's football while supporting an important charitable cause through music therapy.
