Marc Aspland

Marc Aspland, has had an illustrious career spanning over three decades. This selection for the UK Press Awards embodies his skill and intuition that lies at the heart of his work.

One image captures the zenith of football glory, as Lionel Messi, falls to his knees in jubilation. This transcendent moment, frozen in time, encapsulates the euphoria of a nation, the culmination of years of dedication and the relentless pursuit of excellence. This image not only captures the winning moment of the football World Cup final but also the collective soul of an entire nation.

Contrastingly, Aspland's lens transports us to the humbling environs of Harpenden Town, a team battling valiantly in the Spartan South Midlands Premier Division. Through his photography, the unassuming becomes extraordinary, and the mundane turns into the mysterious. In the midst of a misty night, he unveils the poetry in the grassroots, reminding us that every corner of the sporting world has its own story. His ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary is a testament to his vision as a photographer. Lastly, the image of a high-impact rugby tackle, a moment that reverberates with intensity and raw emotion, speaks to Aspland's versatility as a photographer. The photograph captures the essence of a key rugby World Cup match, where England's Tom Curry is sent off, revealing the collision of passion, commitment, and sportsmanship on the hallowed field.

Marc Aspland's photographic journey has been a testament to his ability to not merely capture moments but to distill them into history. With his eye, he chronicles the heartbeats of sport, from the pinnacles of glory to the grit and determination at its foundation. His work speaks to the soul of sport, and this selection for the UK Press Awards is a testament to his excellence.