Héctor Bellerín Wins BBC Green Sport Award for Sustainability Efforts

With Power Comes Responsibility: Bellerín Wins Green Sport Award

Real Betis Defender Commended for Sustainability Leadership Beyond the Pitch

Héctor Bellerín isn’t your typical top-flight footballer — and he doesn’t try to be.

While most players pull up to training in custom SUVs or sports cars, the Real Betis defender arrives on a bicycle or takes public transport. His commitment to sustainable living has now been formally recognised, as Bellerín was named Global Champion at the BBC Green Sport Awards on Monday.

“It would be easier to take a cab… but we need greener cities, with fewer cars.”

From North London to Seville: The Making of a Green Champion

Bellerín’s journey into environmentalism began at Arsenal, under the mentorship of Arsène Wenger.

“Wenger taught me about living holistically… with empathy and compassion — and that’s where sustainability begins.”

His time in North London shaped his values — and his accent, which is as fluent as his on-pitch crossing ability.

Now at Real Betis, Bellerín continues to advocate for climate action, ethical consumption, and eco-friendly fashion, leveraging his 3.7 million followers to raise awareness.

A Footballer Who Walks (and Cycles) the Talk

The 30-year-old has made sustainability a lifestyle:

• Cycling to training

• Wearing second-hand clothes

• Following a vegan diet

• Investing in Forest Green Rovers, football’s most sustainable club

• Supporting Betis’ eco-initiatives like algae-based kits and recycled seating

“Every time someone puts a mic in front of you, it’s a chance to talk about something that matters.”

Changing Football Culture from Within

Football is not exactly synonymous with climate awareness — frequent international travel, mass merchandising, and energy-heavy operations define the modern game. Bellerín, however, isn’t afraid to speak up.

He criticises the unsustainable demands placed on players, citing FifPro’s report showing some pros travel 100,000+ miles a season.

“We’re treated like marketable goods. More games, more travel. And we’re just told to hydrate.”

Bellerín argues that men’s football lacks the unity seen in the women’s game when it comes to fighting for rights and standards.

“If we united, protested, and took bold decisions, the world would be a different place.”

Surprise Award: “Totally Unexpected”

The BBC Green Sport Award wasn’t something Bellerín saw coming.

The moment was made even more special when teammate Aitor Ruibal handed him an envelope revealing the news.

“I feel very grateful. It means all the work behind the scenes is being seen and appreciated.”