Now in their 24th year, the Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards are widely regarded as the leading celebration of sports writing, championing the best books, authors and storytelling in sport each year. The awards bring together athletes, writers, publishers and media to celebrate the narratives that define the sporting world.
The shortlist for the Charles Tyrwhitt Children's Sports Book Awards 2026 was announced this morning alongside the shortlists for twelve adult book categories, celebrating sporting achievement and the very best in sports writing, from compelling narratives to bold, original voices.
Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards Host, Mark Pougatch, commented on his involvement in the awards: "I’m delighted to be hosting the 24th Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards in association with The Sunday Times for the 4th year at the Kia Oval, as well as judging the prestigious Football Book of the Year Award. It's been another brilliant year for sports books in general, and I can’t wait to announce our winners!"
Charles Tyrwhitt is the headline sponsor of the awards for the third year. Charles Tyrwhitt is a distinguished British clothing brand, renowned for its high quality, timeless style. Joe Irons, Chief Marketing Officer at Charles Tyrwhitt comments: “We're thrilled to be back as sponsors of the 2026 Sports Book Awards for the third year running. A love of sport is woven into everything we do – from our partnerships with England Rugby, Fulham FC and the New York Yankees, to welcoming Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald as our newest ambassador, alongside Joe Root, Stuart Broad, Matt Dawson & Marcus Smith. This year's nominated titles all have great stories to tell and the competition looks stronger than ever. We can't wait to celebrate with the writers who bring sport to life.”
The 2026 Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards feature a broad and diverse range of categories celebrating excellence across sports writing, storytelling and media. The Children’s Sports Book of the Year is supported by the National Literacy Trust and Waterstones
Children’s Sports Book of the Year Shortlist
Girls with Goals: How women's football took over the world by Clelia Castro-Malaspina
A lively history of women’s football, charting its rise from early pioneers and bans to today’s global game. Inspiring, accessible and ideal for young football fans.
Granny National by Rachael Blackmore with Rachel Pierce & illustrated by Tom Snape
A funny, warm racing adventure in which young Rachael tries to help her granny fulfil her dream of becoming a jockey. Great for readers who enjoy sport, family and humour, this title was a LoveReading4Kids debut of the month.
Ice Dancer by Alex Cotter
A gripping middle-grade adventure built around ice skating, friendship and courage. A strong choice for readers who like sport mixed with drama and emotional stakes.
Keep Smashing It: Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Confident by Jodie Ounsley with Becky Grey & illustrated by Dane Thibeault
An empowering non-fiction guide from athlete and Gladiator Jodie Ounsley (aka Fury), encouraging young readers to be brave, confident and resilient. Particularly strong on disability, difference and self-belief.
Running My Own Race by Abena Eyeson
A coming-of-age novel about Kofi, a talented young runner trying to follow his dream while dealing with school, family pressure and identity. Warm, thoughtful and inspiring. This title was a LoveReading4Kids Star Book described by expert reviewer, Joanne Owen as, "This beautiful, big-souled book".
Shoot for the Stars by Danielle Brown illustrated by Jayde Perkin and Filigrana de Ideas
A practical, upbeat guide to confidence, sport and self-belief, drawing on Danielle Brown’s Paralympic success and other athlete stories. Encouraging for both beginners and committed young sportspeople.
The Not-So-Secret Diary of a Footballer: A behind-the-scenes look into the life of a Lioness by Ella Toone
A funny behind-the-scenes diary from Lioness Ella Toone, giving readers a light, personal look at life in elite women’s football. Highly appealing for football fans.
Ultimate Rugby Superstars by Matt Oldfield & Maggie Alphonsi illustrated by Dan Leydon
A collection of short biographies of 50 rugby greats, packed with facts, stories and sporting inspiration. Perfect for rugby-mad readers and reluctant readers who enjoy bite-sized profiles.
For information on the twelve adult sports book categories, and to vote for the winner of the Charles Tyrwhitt Autobiography of the Year in association with The Sunday Times, and the Sports Entertainment Book of the Year in association with LoveReading, head over to the LoveReading website here.
Bluesky: @sportsbookawards.bsky.social
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