Rory McIlroy is the clear favourite to win BBC Sports Personality of the Year, ahead of F1 champion Lando Norris and Lionesses star Chloe Kelly.
Rory McIlroy headlines the shortlist after a sensational year in golf, finally completing the career Grand Slam with victory at The Masters before playing a key role in Europe’s dominant Ryder Cup success. His achievements on both an individual and team level make him a standout candidate and the bookmakers’ clear favourite.
F1 champion Lando Norris is McIlroy’s closest challenger after claiming his maiden Formula One World Championship. Norris’ breakthrough season captured the imagination of fans across the UK, with consistent race wins and a landmark title cementing his place among Britain’s sporting elite.
Chloe Kelly is also firmly in contention following another historic year for the Lionesses. Kelly played a pivotal role in England’s European Championship triumph and added UEFA Women’s Champions League success at club level, further enhancing her reputation as one of the most influential figures in women’s football.
While McIlroy remains odds-on, public voting has historically played a decisive role in the outcome, meaning Norris and Kelly cannot be ruled out on the night.
Who are the 2025 Sports Personality of The Year Contenders?
Rory McIlroy, Lando Norris, and Chloe Kelly are joined by three other outstanding British athletes in contention for the award. Here is the complete list of all six nominees:
- Hannah Hampton (Football)
- Chloe Kelly (Football)
- Ellie Kildunne (Rugby Union)
- Luke Littler (Darts)
- Rory McIlroy (Golf)
- Lando Norris (Formula 1)
Sports Personality of The Year Betting Odds
According to the latest odds, Rory McIlroy is the front-runner to claim his first SPOTY award and become the first golfer to win it since 1989. McLaren F1 champion Lando Norris and Chloe Kelly are McIlroy's closest challengers in the race.
| Winner | Best Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Rory McIlroy | 8/13 | Skybet |
| Lando Norris | 4/1 | Boyle Sports |
| Chloe Kelly | 11/2 | Star Sports |
| Luke Littler | 33/1 | Star Sports |
| Ellie Kildunne | 50/1 | 888sport |
| Hannah Hampton | 80/1 | BetMGM UK |
Odds last updated at 11:00 Thursday, 18th December.
Betfred
- Huge range of regular promotions
- 24/7 live chat service
- PickYourPunt builder for custom bets
Sports Personality of the Year Winners List (Last 5 years)
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award has celebrated some of the biggest moments in British sport in recent years. Below is a recap of the winners from the last five ceremonies.
| Previous SPOTY Winners List | Year Won | Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Keely Hodgkinson | 2024 | Athletics |
| Mary Earps | 2023 | Football |
| Beth Mead | 2022 | Football |
| Emma Raducanu | 2021 | Tennis |
| Lewis Hamilton | 2020 | Formula One |
Who is the favourite to win the Sports Personality of The Year Award?
Rory McIlroy is the standout nominee for BBC Sports Personality of the Year after delivering one of the most significant seasons in modern golf. The Northern Irishman finally completed the career Grand Slam by winning The Masters, adding the elusive Green Jacket to his collection and cementing his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Beyond individual success, McIlroy also played a pivotal leadership role in Europe’s Ryder Cup triumph, helping the team secure a dominant away victory to successfully defend the trophy. His performances across the year combined sustained excellence, historical achievement, and team impact — key factors that traditionally resonate strongly with SPOTY voters.
Lando Norris enters the SPOTY race after a stunning season that saw him claim his first Formula One World Championship. The British driver delivered consistent performances across the calendar, converting multiple race wins into a title-winning campaign that marked a major milestone in his career.
Norris’ success represents more than just individual brilliance; it reflects a generational shift in British motorsport, with a new world champion emerging to follow in the footsteps of Lewis Hamilton. His popularity among younger fans and strong media presence further enhance his appeal in a public-voted award.
Winning a Formula One world title has historically been a decisive factor in SPOTY voting, placing Norris firmly among the leading contenders despite facing stiff competition from other sports.
Chloe Kelly has been nominated following an outstanding year that reinforced her status as one of the most influential figures in women’s football. The Lionesses forward played a key role in England’s European Championship success, delivering decisive performances on the international stage when it mattered most.
At club level, Kelly added to her honours by winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League, underlining her impact across both domestic and European competition. Her ability to perform in major finals and high-pressure moments has been central to her nomination.
Women’s football has enjoyed strong support in recent SPOTY editions, and Kelly’s combination of team success, iconic moments, and growing public profile ensures she remains a serious contender for the award.
