The stage is set for one of British sport's most glittering nights, with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony promising a celebration of global and domestic athletic excellence. While the main award remains under wraps, several other prestigious prizes have confirmed their stellar shortlists and a legendary recipient.
Global Icons Vie for World Sport Star Crown
The international category features a truly elite field. Athletics is represented by world-record holders Armand 'Mondo' Duplantis in the pole vault and 400m hurdles queen Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. The world of football offers two contenders: Liverpool and Egypt's prolific forward Mohamed Salah, and Spanish World Cup-winning footballer Mariona Caldentey. Completing the line-up are two recently crowned kings of their sports: undefeated, recently-retired boxing champion Terence Crawford and baseball's unprecedented two-way phenomenon, Shohei Ohtani.
Team of the Year & Rising Stars
The battle for Team of the Year is fiercely competitive, with three squads that would be runaway winners in any other year. The shortlist includes the England women's rugby union team, the England women's football team (the Lionesses), and Europe's triumphant Ryder Cup golf team.
Meanwhile, the future of sport is showcased in the Young Sports Personality category. The nominees are darts sensation Luke Littler, England women's under-17 football Euros hero Michelle Agyemang, and teenage cricket prodigy Davina Perrin.
Special Honours for Henry and Inspirational Figures
Two special awards will also capture the spotlight. The Helen Rollason Award, recognising "outstanding achievement in the face of adversity," has a proud recent history. Past recipients include the late rugby league legend Rob Burrow, javelin champion Fatima Whitbread, and campaigner Mark Prince, who founded the Kiyan Prince Foundation in memory of his son.
The headline honour, however, is the Lifetime Achievement Award. This year, it will be presented to a man who transcends sport: football icon, revered pundit, and cultural figure Thierry Henry. The former Arsenal and France striker, known for his unparalleled skill and iconic 'va-va-voom' style, will be celebrated for his monumental contribution to the game.
The ceremony promises a night where sporting greatness, from emerging talent to enduring legacy, will be rightfully honoured.
