Eni Aluko has stepped down from presenting the Women’s Football Awards following the backlash to her recent comments about former England striker Ian Wright.
Aluko had accused Wright of “blocking opportunities for women” in the women’s game during a BBC Radio 4 interview, sparking widespread criticism. Aluko later issued a public apology, admitting it was wrong to mention Wright in that context.
Wright, unimpressed by the accusations, refused to accept the apology. In a video posted to Instagram, the former Arsenal striker expressed his “disappointment” while urging the public to move on from the incident. “She knows how I’ve helped her and supported her publicly, but I can’t accept that apology,” he said. “Still, I want to move on.”
ITV, where Wright works as a pundit, also backed him with a firm statement, declaring that his “standing in the sport is beyond question.”
Aluko’s mother claimed the fallout had left her daughter “traumatised” by the scale of public scrutiny.
Aluko was initially scheduled to co-host Thursday night’s Women’s Football Awards alongside Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher. However, in a statement, she announced her decision to step aside.
“I don’t want anything to deflect from the joy, recognition, and celebration that this event is all about,” Aluko said.
“This event belongs to the players, coaches, fans, and everyone who has worked tirelessly to elevate the women’s game.”
“The awards will be hosted in the very capable hands of Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher, who I know will bring their passion and energy to the stage. I love women’s football deeply; I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and I’ll absolutely be back involved in the future.”
Promotional materials for the event have since been updated to feature only Logan and Carragher.
