Full Breakdown
2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Nominees Announced
12/12/2025, 12:56:34 PM
Shortlist of Contenders
The BBC has unveiled a shortlist of six nominees for the 2025 Sports Personality of the Year award, featuring notable athletes from various sports. The contenders are England footballers Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly, rugby union player Ellie Kildunne, darts player Luke Littler, golfer Rory McIlroy, and Formula 1 driver Lando Norris. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite during the live broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Thursday, December 18, 2025, hosted by Gabby Logan, Alex Scott, and Clare Balding from MediaCityUK in Salford.
Achievements of Nominees
Rory McIlroy is currently the favorite to win, with odds of 8/13 from Paddy Power. His remarkable year includes winning The Masters, which completed his career Grand Slam, and contributing significantly to the European Ryder Cup victory. Despite multiple nominations in the past, McIlroy has yet to win the award.
Chloe Kelly, who is second-favorite at 10/3, played a pivotal role in the Lionesses' success at the UEFA Women's Euro, scoring the decisive penalty in the final against Spain. Hannah Hampton, also a nominee, was instrumental in that victory and later won the Yashin Trophy for best women's goalkeeper.
Lando Norris, who recently clinched his first Formula One world title, is another strong contender. He secured the championship in a dramatic finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Ellie Kildunne earned her nomination by helping the England Women's Rugby team win the World Cup and scoring five tries during the tournament. Luke Littler, at just 17 years old, became the youngest world darts champion and is also in contention.
Official Statements & Responses
Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, expressed excitement about the nominees, stating, "This has been a breathtaking year for sport, driven by athletes whose performances belong in the history books." He emphasized the significance of the achievements that have defined 2025, highlighting the importance of honoring these athletes during the ceremony.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the accolades, some critics have voiced concerns regarding the shortlist. Journalist Henry Winter noted the omission of Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay, who had a standout year, winning the Scudetto and being nominated for the Ballon d'Or. This has sparked debate among fans about the selection criteria and the representation of athletes from different sports.
What's Next
The award ceremony will take place on December 18, 2025, where the winner will be announced following a public vote. The event will also feature additional awards, including Team of the Year and Young Sports Personality of the Year, with nominees for these categories to be revealed on December 15.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This has been a breathtaking year for sport, driven by athletes whose performances belong in the history books.” — Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport
- “If McIlroy doesn't win this, it will render SPOTY utterly pointless and irrelevant. He's had an unbelievable year, transporting him into the ranks of true sporting greats.” — Piers Morgan, Media Personality
The 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award promises to be a celebration of extraordinary sporting achievements, reflecting a year filled with memorable moments across various disciplines.
