Football legend and newly crowned Strictly Come Dancing queen Karen Carney has sent a heartfelt Christmas message to her beloved Birmingham City fans following her sensational victory on the BBC show.
From the pitch to the dance floor
Karen Carney, the Lioness from Solihull, was crowned the winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 on Saturday, December 20. She lifted the famous glitterball trophy alongside her professional dance partner, Carlos Gu, in a thrilling final watched by millions.
The former England and Birmingham City Women's star was visibly shocked as the cast and crew of the hit series surrounded her with congratulations. The emotional win capped off an incredible journey on the dance floor for the sporting icon.
A special thank you to the Blues faithful
In the days following her triumph, Carney recorded a special video message for the supporters of Birmingham City Football Club, which was posted on the club's official social media channels.
In the clip, she said: "Hi everybody. I just want to say to everyone, all the Blues fans, thank you so much for your support to both me and Carlos on the Strictly Come Dancing journey. We can't believe it, but thank you so much. See you at a game very soon. Keep right on and happy Christmas."
The club's women's team, whom Carney played for between 2011 and 2015, proudly responded: "A message from Strictly champ Kaz. We’re all so proud."
An outpouring of love from fans
The post prompted an immediate and warm reaction from fans, friends, and fellow supporters in the comments section.
One supporter wrote: "Congratulations Kaz and KRO." Another added: "Congratulations to you Karen and Carlos on your great achievement. Happy Christmas to you. KRO."
A third fan revealed: "I gave all my 8 votes to you & Carlos Kaz, you smashed it, so glad you won, hope to see you at the blues sometime, sending love and best wishes for a great Christmas KRO."
Carney's connection to Birmingham City runs deep, not only from her playing days but also as a lifelong avid fan. Earlier in the Strictly competition, she even joked about trying to convert Carlos Gu into a Blues supporter.
Speaking to BirminghamLive in September, she said: "I'm trying to convert him to be a Birmingham City fan. So I've got a little bit of work to do, but if we can get him a 51 Carlos Gu Blues top, I'd be very happy."
Her victory and subsequent message have beautifully intertwined the worlds of sport and entertainment, showcasing the powerful bond between a local hero and her community.
