FOOTBALL industry heavyweights Paul Stretford and Kenneth Shepherd have been honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Global Football Industry Awards in recognition of their longstanding support of Soccer Aid for UNICEF.
The ceremony took place recently at the Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, bringing together some of the biggest names and organisations from across the world of football to celebrate the individuals and businesses making a significant impact on the global game.
The Lifetime Achievement Award for the two Soccer Aid leaders was presented to the pair by former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, former Lioness Toni Duggan and comedian Paddy McGuinness, recognising their respective contributions to football and charity throughout their distinguished careers.
Stretford is one of English football’s most prominent agents, having founded Proactive Sports Management, now known as Triple S Sports Management, in 1987. He went on to represent a number of high-profile footballers, including England legend Wayne Rooney. Stretford has since played a significant role in the development of football representation and the commercial landscape of the modern game.
Shepherd, who also heads up Triple S Sports Management, was the Founder of Soccer Aid Productions. He has made a notable contribution to football both on and off the pitch. Shepherd was instrumental in launching the much-loved annual charitable initiative, bringing together footballing legends and entertainment stars to support children around the world.
Stretford and Shepherd were recognised for their work in football representation and contribution to the growth of Soccer Aid, which has raised more than £137 million for UNICEF since it launched in 2006.
Soccer Aid for UNICEF, initially conceived as a one-off charity football match to raise money for the organisation, has since grown into one of the UK’s most high-profile celebrity sporting fundraisers.
Paddy McGuiness said:
“I’m so proud to pay tribute to a duo who have had a profound impact on football and two figures we’ve both had the pleasure of working with over the years. Together, they built Triple S Group into a dynamic force in British & International football.
“Paul leads the business as Group Managing Director, involved in football management and talent representation for nearly 40 years, while Kenneth plays a pivotal role in the business and the development of Soccer Aid, which has raised more than £137 million for UNICEF. Together they are amazing.”
Wayne Rooney said:
“Paul in particular has had a major influence on my life since I was a teenager and has guided my career. Both Paul and Kenneth are very deserving of this award. It is not before time, and I’m delighted for both of them.”
Awards host Theo Walcott commented:
“Paul and Kenneth are both hugely deserving recipients of this Lifetime Achievement Award. They have each made an incredible contribution to football, not just through their work within the game, but through the lasting impact they have had on the wider football community.”
Co-host Jamie Carragher added:
“Paul has been instrumental in shaping the modern football agency landscape, while Kenneth’s vision in creating Soccer Aid for UNICEF has brought together the worlds of sport and entertainment to make a real difference to children’s lives. It was a privilege to see them receive this award and recognise everything they have achieved. They are both fantastic examples of the people who help make football so much more than just a game that lasts 90 minutes.”
The prestigious ceremony also featured an exclusive on-stage Q&A with Anthony Barry, assistant manager to England head coach Thomas Tuchel. Barry offered a fascinating insight into England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. He also shared behind-the-scenes stories about the demands of competing on football’s biggest international stage and the experiences that have helped shape his distinguished coaching career.
The Global Football Industry Awards celebrate excellence, innovation and achievement across the football business, recognising the people and organisations helping to shape the future of the sport.
