In these triggering times, it was cathartic to dedicate this issue to ‘Black joy’ in football – because beyond the ever-present trauma of racism, the triumphs, unapologetic innovation, and nuanced realities of the black community across football are ripe for creative exploration.

Our cover star Lauren James, the Chelsea FC Women sensation about to take the football world by a storm, embodies this energy and she has an enlightening heart-to-heart with our Editor-in-Chief Felicia Pennant. We made a point of collaborating with as many incredible creatives of colour as possible – writers, photographers, illustrators, stylists, our designer – to bring this issue to life. We’re so proud of it and excited for you to finally dive in.