BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025: Why Each Shortlisted Contender Should Win
The 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist features a diverse group of athletes who have each achieved remarkable feats in their respective sports.
Hannah Hampton starred for England in Euro 2025, making key saves including two shootout stops in the final against Spain and a decisive double save in the semi-final against Italy, helping England reach the final and Chelsea secure a domestic treble. She also kept 13 clean sheets in 22 league games. Overcoming a serious eye condition that affects depth perception, Hampton is poised to replace Mary Earps as England’s No. 1 goalkeeper at age 25.
Chloe Kelly scored the winning penalty in Euro 2025 against Spain and was pivotal in the quarter-final shootout. After a difficult spell at Manchester City, she moved on loan to Arsenal, contributed to Arsenal’s Champions League win, and delivered in the Euros final with confidence and swagger.
Ellie Kildunne contributed significantly to England’s Rugby World Cup 2025 victory, scoring nine tries across the Six Nations and World Cup. She became the first women’s rugby player shortlisted for the Sports Personality of the Year, helped by her iconic fan connection and celebrations.
In darts, Luke Littler dominated the 2025 season as world champion and world number one, winning major titles including the World Matchplay and World Grand Prix. The world champion prize fund was raised to £1 million; however, the final occurs in January, which could limit campaigning and media exposure for SPOTY.
Rory McIlroy completed the career grand slam with victory at the 2025 Masters, contributing to Europe’s Ryder Cup win. He delivered a standout year across multiple majors and orders of merit, described as the finest spell of his career.
Lando Norris won the 2025 Formula One World Championship by a narrow 2-point margin over Max Verstappen in Abu Dhabi. He helped McLaren clinch the constructors’ title and navigated a season marked by on- and off-track tensions, earning recognition for delivering the title on his own terms.
