BBC Sports Personality of the Year | 2025 Preview

It's almost time to celebrate another fantastic year of British sport

As always, the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards will focus on major titles, breakthrough stars and historic milestones.

Author | Sophie T

Now in its 71st year, the SPOTY award remains one of the most prestigious honours in British sport, recognising individuals whose performances have inspired the nation and defined the sporting calendar.

Voted for by the public and broadcast live in December, the ceremony will showcase a rich array of talent from across the sporting spectrum, from golf majors and Grand Slam triumphs to Rugby World Cups and record-breaking feats in athletics.

The frontrunners for 2025

Chloe Kelly

Chloe Kelly has emerged as one of the leading contenders following a standout UEFA Women’s Euro campaign. The Arsenal forward was central to England’s successful title defence, converting the decisive penalty in the final shootout against Spain and providing the crucial assist for Alessia Russo’s equaliser. She also found the net in both the semi-final and quarter-final, underlining her big-game pedigree.

Rory McIlroy

He delivered one of the defining moments in modern golf with his long-awaited victory at the Masters. In finally conquering Augusta National after a series of near misses, McIlroy completed the career Grand Slam, joining an elite club of only six players and becoming the first European to achieve the feat. He was also a key part of Europe's historic Ryder Cup win in the United States. 

Luke Littler

He won the Young Sports Personality of the Year trophy at last year's ceremony, also coming second in the main award. He's since won his first World Championship, thrown numerous nine-darters and is the biggest name in his sport. Check out the video below (uploaded by the Professional Darts Corporation) to see Little at his absolute best. 

Ellie Kildunne

One of the standout performers in England Women's memorable Rugby World Cup triumph, her place in the top three is well deserved. A prolific try scorer, the World Player of the Year made a decisive impact in the final as the Red Roses avenged their 2022 disappointment by beating Canada at Twickenham in front of a record crowd of 81,885.

Lando Norris

His victory at the British Grand Prix in July 2025 significantly boosted his status as a SPOTY contender.  That breakthrough win on home soil has captured the imagination of the public across the United Kingdom. Lewis Hamilton won the award twice, which shows that the British public can occasionally fall for an Formula 1 driver.