The Charlton Award

The FA has introduced two new annual awards for each of the Professional Game and the National Game to recognise the contributions of two individuals making a significant contribution to the future of football.

The Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation is delighted that the Professional Game award has been named The Charlton Award in recognition of our founder and the huge contribution he made to football during his lifetime.

Announcing the award, Manchester United Director David Gill said: “Sir Bobby Charlton was more than just a footballer; he was a beacon of excellence, integrity and humility in the beautiful game. His journey from a young lad in Ashington to a global football icon is a testament to his incredible talent and unyielding spirit. With over 249 goals for Manchester United and a pivotal role in England’s 1966 World Cup victory, Bobby’s accomplishments on the pitch are legendary. But his influence stretched far beyond his playing days. Bobby was a tireless ambassador for football, dedicating his life to nurturing young talent, promoting the sport globally, and contributing to numerous charitable causes. His legacy is not just written in the record books but in the hearts of everyone who loves football.

“For me, Bobby was more than a colleague; he was a dear friend. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering principles left an indelible mark on my life. We shared countless memories and his genuine warmth and generosity touched everyone he met. It is with great pride that I am delighted to launch the Charlton Award on behalf of The FA Council. This award will honour individuals who embody Bobby’s spirit and values—excellence, dedication, and a commitment to making a positive impact through football. As we celebrate this new chapter in his legacy, let us remember Sir Bobby Charlton not just for his incredible feats on the field, but for his profound contribution to football and society. The Charlton Award will inspire future generations to follow in his extraordinary footsteps.”

Alongside this award is the Hope Award for the National Game winner named after Charlotte Hope, a young volunteer who worked for an overseas charity which used football to positively change the lives of young children, and who tragically lost her life last year.

Both Sir Bobby and Charlotte have been announced as posthumous recipients of the inaugural awards. The 2023/24 Charlton Award recipient is Lotte Wubben-Moy of Arsenal and England, while the Hope Award goes to Jason Land, Grimsby Town’s Sports and Education Trust Disability and Inclusion Lead, as the winner of the Hope Award. Both winners were selected by The FA Council. The beautifully-crafted awards were designed by world-renowned elite sporting trophy-makers Thomas Lyte.

FA Chair Debbie Hewitt MBE said: “It is with a great honour and privilege that we are able to come together and celebrate the achievements of Sir Bobby Charlton and Charlotte Hope through the Charlton and Hope Awards. Sir Bobby and Charlotte’s commitment and dedication to football leaves a lasting legacy and we will never forget their contributions. Our winners for this year, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Jason Land, have both shown incredible passion and determination to use the power of football to bring about positive change in society and we congratulate them on their achievements and well-deserved recognition.”