The excitement is building at the 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards, and the buzz is palpable.
Fans, athletes, and sports icons alike have gathered to celebrate a year packed with incredible moments, drama, and triumphs across the sporting world.
Among those in the spotlight tonight are Rory McIlroy, Chloe Kelly, Lando Norris, Hannah Hampton, Luke Littler, and Ellie Kildunne.
England Sends Their Good Luck Wishes
Before the glitz kicked in, the England teams sent a warm message to their stars, hoping for individual glory as well as team success.
The Lionesses are in contention for both individual awards and the prestigious Team of the Year, standing alongside England’s rugby squad and the Ryder Cup team.
Meet The Hosts and Arrivals
On the red carpet, Gabby Logan arrived with her husband Kenny and daughter Lois, while Alex Scott appeared fresh from jungle adventures alongside her partner Jess Glynn.
The energy ramped up as Hannah Hampton made her entrance, joined by her national manager Sarina Wiegman, all hopeful for a night to remember.
SPOTY Odds Are Shifting
Bookmakers’ odds have been changing by the minute.
Rory McIlroy leads as the heavy favourite at 4/7, followed by Chloe Kelly and Lando Norris at 7/2 each.
Luke Littler sits at 22/1, Ellie Kildunne at 40/1, and Hannah Hampton at 66/1.
While Rory is the standout favourite, surprises are always part of SPOTY’s charm.
Rory McIlroy’s Triumphant Year
After more than a decade without a major win, Rory McIlroy returned to form in spectacular fashion.
He clinched the Masters with a tense playoff victory, completing his career Grand Slam.
Later, he anchored Team Europe to Ryder Cup glory in the United States, securing three-and-a-half crucial points for the team and reminding the world why he remains one of golf’s elite.
Luke Littler’s Darts Domination
At just 18, Luke Littler has taken the darts world by storm.
From a sensational debut at 16 to becoming World Champion in January, Littler’s rise has been meteoric.
This year alone, he added the UK Open, World Matchplay, Grand Prix, and Players Championship Finals to his growing trophy cabinet.
He’s already chasing another world title, proving his consistency and composure under pressure.
Lando Norris Reaches Formula One Glory
After narrowly missing out on last year’s crown, Lando Norris silenced doubters in 2025.
With a season-long battle against Max Verstappen and a late-season surge, Norris emerged victorious in the drivers’ standings.
The 11th British F1 world champion demonstrated resilience, determination, and sheer skill to seize the ultimate prize.
Ellie Kildunne Inspires England to Rugby Glory
Ellie Kildunne has been instrumental in England’s Rugby World Cup success.
After missing a quarter-final due to concussion, she bounced back with two tries in the semi-final against France. In the final, Kildunne scored a solo try in front of 80,000 fans, securing victory over Canada and cementing her status as a game-changer.
She also played a pivotal role in England’s Six Nations Grand Slam earlier in the year.
Chloe Kelly’s Moment on the Big Stage
Chloe Kelly’s journey has been remarkable.
From uncertainty over her future after leaving Manchester City to a Champions League and Euros triumph with Arsenal and England, Kelly has consistently delivered.
Scoring in critical moments, including the quarter-final, semi-final, and penalty shootout against Spain, she proved she thrives under pressure and on the biggest stages.
Hannah Hampton’s Rise to Heroism
Lioness goalkeeper Hannah Hampton patiently waited her turn but grabbed the spotlight this year.
Named Sarina Wiegman’s first choice for Euro defense, she saved two penalties in the dramatic final shootout against Spain, earning Player of the Match and the goalkeeper spot in the Team of the Tournament.
Hampton also claimed the Yashin Trophy earlier this year and helped Chelsea secure a domestic treble, leaving fans both impressed and entertained.
The SPOTY Shortlist
This year’s main award shortlist showcases a truly diverse range of talent:
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Hannah Hampton (football)
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Chloe Kelly (football)
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Ellie Kildunne (rugby union)
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Luke Littler (darts)
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Rory McIlroy (golf)
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Lando Norris (Formula One)
Each athlete has made a mark in their sport, making the choice for the ultimate accolade tonight both thrilling and challenging.
Celebrity Spotting and Festive Fun
As the arrivals continued, Thierry Henry, Beth Tweddle, and other sports celebrities mingled, adding glamour and excitement to the event.
Even small moments, like the playful interactions between stars, remind everyone that SPOTY isn’t just about awards — it’s a celebration of sport in all its glory.
What’s Next
The stage is set, the nominees are ready, and fans around the world wait in anticipation.
Whether it’s golf, football, darts, rugby, or Formula One, SPOTY 2025 promises a night of unforgettable stories, triumphs, and memories.
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