The sporting year reaches its glittering climax tonight as the BBC hosts its prestigious Sports Personality of the Year 2025 ceremony. The event will celebrate a year of remarkable achievement and crown a new champion, voted for by the British public.
When and How to Watch SPOTY 2025
The two-hour BBC SPOTY show will be broadcast live on Thursday, December 18. It begins at 7pm GMT on BBC One and BBC One HD. For those preferring to stream, the entire ceremony will be available for free via the BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.
The Star-Studded Shortlist of Nominees
Six exceptional athletes from a diverse range of sports have been shortlisted for the main award. The nominees are: golfing superstar Rory McIlroy, Formula One world champion Lando Norris, teenage darts sensation Luke Littler, rugby union's Ellie Kildunne, and footballing Lionesses Chloe Kelly and Hannah Hampton.
Each nominee is recognised for a landmark achievement in 2025. McIlroy finally secured his career Grand Slam with a Masters victory, while Norris captured his maiden F1 world title. Littler's incredible rise continued, and Kelly and Hampton were instrumental in England's historic second consecutive European Championship win.
Favourites and The Crucial Live Vote
According to bookmakers, Rory McIlroy is the current favourite to lift the iconic trophy. However, Lando Norris and Chloe Kelly are also considered top contenders following their own historic seasons.
A critical detail for viewers is that the winner is decided by a live public vote which opens only during the broadcast. You can vote for free online through the official BBC website or by calling the telephone numbers provided on the night.
Lifetime Achievement and Other Awards
Beyond the main prize, the ceremony will honour Arsenal and France legend Thierry Henry with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award. The evening will also unveil the winners in other major categories, including Team of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Young Sports Personality of the Year.
Tonight's event promises to be a fitting tribute to a spectacular year in British and international sport, with the identity of the 2025 Sports Personality of the Year remaining a closely guarded secret until the final moment.
