Rory McIlroy leads BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist
The BBC has unveiled its six-strong shortlist for the 2025 Sports Personality of the Year award, with Rory McIlroy emerging as the clear frontrunner, reports BritPanorama.
The Northern Irish golfer achieved something truly remarkable this year, securing The Masters title in dramatic circumstances to complete the career Grand Slam. Bookmakers have installed McIlroy at odds of 8/13 to claim the prestigious accolade.
Remarkably, despite numerous previous nominations, the Ryder Cup winner has never lifted the iconic trophy. His historic Augusta triumph places him firmly ahead of a stellar field of British sporting talent vying for the nation’s most coveted individual sports honour.
Lando Norris joins the shortlist following a breakthrough season that saw him clinch his maiden Formula One world championship. The British driver secured the title last weekend with a third-place finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, becoming the first F1 competitor nominated since Lewis Hamilton’s 2020 victory.
England’s triumphant Lionesses are represented by two nominees after their European Championship success this summer. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who has established herself as the team’s first-choice stopper, appears alongside attacking star Chloe Kelly.
Ellie Kildunne earns her place after helping the Red Roses claim Women’s Rugby World Cup glory on home turf. Darts phenomenon Luke Littler completes the lineup, having finished runner-up to Keely Hodgkinson last year and set to defend his World Championship title against Darius Labanauskas.
Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, expressed his enthusiasm for the exceptional sporting achievements witnessed throughout the year. “This has been a breathtaking year for sport, driven by athletes whose performances belong in the history books,” he said. “Each one has delivered moments of pure brilliance that have defined 2025.”
He added, “It’s been incredible to watch and I can’t wait to honour their achievements and to see who the nation chooses as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025.”
The ceremony takes place on Thursday, 18 December at MediaCity in Salford, the home of BBC Sport. Coverage will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer between 7pm and 9pm, with viewers having the opportunity to cast their votes during the live broadcast.
In an intriguing format twist, the six nominees will be whittled down to a final three before the ultimate winner is announced. It promises to be a lively evening, showcasing not only individual excellence but the broader narrative of how sport continues to captivate the nation.
