Women’s Footballer of the Year 2026 Shortlist Revealed: Four Lionesses in Contention for Top Award

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She Kicks Magazine

·20 February 2026

Women’s Footballer of the Year 2026 Shortlist Revealed: Four Lionesses in Contention for Top Award

Lauren Hemp lifts Euro 2025 trophy after England beat Spain in the final

Women’s football is reaching new heights, and the latest example is the announcement of the 2026 Women’s Footballer of the Year shortlist.

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Four standout England Lionesses, fresh off their unforgettable Euros victory, are in the running for this prestigious honor.

Now in its fourth year, the Women’s Football Awards shine a spotlight on the players, teams, and organizations driving the game forward.

The winner of the top award will be revealed at a glitzy event on May 7, with popular TV hosts Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher leading the celebrations.

Four Lionesses Shortlisted for Women’s Footballer of the Year 2026

This year’s shortlist celebrates England’s Euro-winning stars, highlighting how each of them played a crucial role in one of the most memorable moments in women’s football:

Hannah Hampton — England’s goalkeeper was the hero in the Euros final, saving two penalties in the shootout and helping bring the trophy home.
Alessia Russo — The dynamic forward scored England’s crucial equalizer against Spain to force extra time, then added another vital goal in the final to seal the win.
Lauren Hemp — A key part of the Lionesses’ squad, Hemp’s flair and consistency helped drive England to their historic Euros triumph.
Ella Toone — Toone’s creativity and impact in midfield were vital all tournament long, making her another indispensable part of England’s success.

These nominations show just how much talent and depth the Lionesses had in the squad that lifted the Euros trophy last year, and comes after the England were inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame.

Why This Shortlist Matters for Women’s Football

Chloe Kelly and Hannah Hampton celebrate England’s penalty shootout win against Spain in euro 2025 final

Gabby Logan, co-host of the awards, said: “This event shines a deserved spotlight on the star athletes, dedicated teams and organisations driving the extraordinary rise of women’s football. It is a moment of celebration for the whole game.”

Jamie Carragher added: “The shortlist reflects just how powerful and dynamic the women’s game has become – not just on the pitch, but across business, media and culture. These awards recognise the trailblazers and innovators shaping the future of women’s football. I can’t wait to celebrate with the nominees on May 7.”

But it’s not just about the Player of the Year.

The awards also recognize domestic stars like Bunny Shaw, as well as global icons such as Alèxia Putellas, Ewa Pajor, and Linda Caicedo. Off the pitch, innovators, executives, and brands are being celebrated for helping grow women’s football and make it more visible than ever.

Looking Ahead to the Women’s Football Awards Ceremony

The awards night on May 7 promises to be a landmark celebration of women’s football, with all eyes on the Lionesses to see who will take home the ultimate prize.

England’s Euro 2025 win saw interest surge in women’s football, and that bodes well for award ceromeny being the biggest and best yet.

Keep an eye on She Kicks for updates on the awards, spotlights on the nominees, and all the highlights from the big night. Women’s football has never been stronger, and these awards are proof.