BBC Sports Personality of the Year viewers divided as they issue same complaint

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025 saw six sports stars nominated for the prestigious award, but viewers were left fuming just moments into the show

Gabby Logan was one of the presenters

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Gabby Logan was one of the presenters(Image: BBC)

Six sporting heroes are competing for the coveted Sports Personality of the Year title, with BBC audiences casting their votes over recent days to crown the 2025 champion. The shortlist features England footballers Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly, darts sensation Luke Littler, golfing great Rory McIlroy and Formula One ace Lando Norris.

Yet within minutes of Thursday evening’s broadcast, which began at 7 pm on December 18, viewers took to social media with identical gripes about the programme’s scheduling.

Taking to X, one disgruntled viewer observed: “I always thought #SPOTY was on a Sunday…” Another commented: “Worst opening montage I’ve ever seen/heard.”

A third viewer expressed: “So, just found out it’s SPOTY tonight. I used to watch it, going back as far as when Rummy was on it. Not any more, not for quite a few years. Like everything else, the @BBC have absolutely ruined it.”

Another lamented: “#Spoty on a Thursday night sad!” Traditionally broadcast on Sunday evenings, the ceremony has been rescheduled to accommodate the competing athletes’ commitments more conveniently.

Alex Scott was one of the hosts this year

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Viewers issued the same complaint minutes into the programme(Image: BBC)

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Notwithstanding the criticism, many viewers remained eager to discover the winner, with one posting: “I haven’t watched #SPOTY in years – but I hope @McIlroyRory wins it!” reports the Express.

Another chimed in: “I would like to see Lando Norris win, but I just think he will get pipped by Rory by the looks of the betting odds, which aren’t usually wrong.”

Prior to announcing the main winner, several other accolades were presented, including the Lifetime Achievement award, which was given to former Arsenal and France forward Thierry Henry.

The 48-year-old, who hung up his boots in 2014, was chosen by BBC Sport’s senior management, who regard him as one of the finest talents to have graced the Premier League. In a touching scene, the football legend’s young children took to the stage to present him with the prestigious honour.

BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025 - Arrivals

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Thierry Henry won a prestigious award at the event (Image: Getty)

“I want to say thank you to everyone who believed in me, and also the ones who didn’t,” Henry remarked whilst receiving the award, before joking, “Trust me, the list is long, we don’t have time for that.”

He subsequently dedicated the trophy to his children in a poignant moment that moved viewers to tears.

The evening’s main prize was announced at the programme’s conclusion, with Rory receiving a standing ovation from those in attendance.