BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist introduced: Rory McIlroy tipped to beat Chloe Kelly and Lando Norris to the highest prize

Rory McIlroy is the favourite to win the Sports Personality of the Year Award, with the BBC revealing their six-person shortlist on Thursday morning. 

The Ryder Cup winner – who has never claimed the SPOTY prize despite multiple nominations – has been given odds of 8/13 by Paddy Power.

That puts him ahead of Lionesses star Chloe Kelly, who is 10/3 after winning the European Championship, and Formula One king Lando Norris on 7/2.

Lionesses goalkeeper Hannah Hampton is in the mix on 20/1 while Luke Littler is 25/1 after claiming the World Darts Championship aged 18. 

England Women’s Rugby star Ellie Kildunne has been assigned outside odds of 66/1 after winning the World Cup. 

You will be able to vote for your winner during the BBC’s broadcast on December 18, presented from Salford.  

Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, said: ‘This has been a breathtaking year for sport, driven by athletes whose performances belong in the history books.

‘Each one has delivered moments of pure brilliance that have defined 2025.

‘It’s been incredible to watch, and I can’t wait to honour their achievements, and to see who the nation chooses as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025.’

More to follow.