Ethan Ampadu hails Leeds as United and city stars celebrated at Sports Awards | OneFootball

Leeds United were named Sporting Pride of Leeds at the 2026 Leeds Sports Awards, Tony Dorigo collecting the honour as Ethan Ampadu saluted the city’s support in a video message.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, awards across 16 categories were presented at the 23rd annual ceremony at the Carriageworks Theatre on Thursday night, hosted by Tanya Arnold and Jamie Jones-Buchanan.

Organisers highlighted a year that went beyond results, uniting the city through pride, passion and belief after the club’s return to the Premier League. The captain thanked supporters, called the accolade an honour and said the bus parade capped the year.

Leeds Knights were named performance team or club of the year. Leeds Rhinos player Jake Connor, Olympic gymnast Luke Whitehouse and Great Britain lifesaving swimmer Samuel Lawman shared sportsperson of the year. Swimmer Gabe Shepherd took young sportsperson after Commonwealth Games selection.

Hannah Cockroft won disability sportsperson of the year following World Para Athletics Championships success. Special Recognition awards went to retired world champion and Olympic medallist cyclist Lizzie Deignan and former rugby union player Danny Care. Mike Tobin of Armley’s Tobin’s Gym and badminton coaches Brian and Jill Wallwork received Special Contribution awards.

Dorigo praised Yorkshire’s grit and the approachability of its stars, noting improved facilities are helping athletes thrive. Leeds Sports Awards chair Rob Wadsworth lauded a night of talent, commitment and unity. Councillor Salma Arif said the event showcases everyone from Leeds United to community heroes on one stage.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk