Kelly Cates named Media Figure of the Year at the 2026 Women’s Football Awards

Kelly Cates took home Media Figure of the Year (Picture: WFA)

Broadcasting queen Kelly Cates stole the spotlight as she was crowned Media Figure of the Year at the 2026 SHEIN Women’s Football Awards.

A familiar face to millions, the Match of the Day star has become one of the most trusted voices in football – and a driving force behind bringing the women’s game firmly into the mainstream. 

From fronting blockbuster fixtures to leading the biggest debates in the studio, she’s made sure the women’s game gets the same spotlight, respect and serious analysis as the men’s.

This year’s award, voted for by the public, proves just how much impact she’s had in changing the conversation and pushing the game to new heights.

It was a glit...