BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 | Celebrating Sporting Excellence
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) 2024 is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year. With millions of viewers tuning in annually, this prestigious award recognises the most outstanding athletes from across the UK for their exceptional achievements.
In 2023, over 10 million votes were cast, showcasing the nation’s passion for honouring its sporting heroes. As 2024 unfolds, fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the nominees and the chance to crown the next champion.
This year’s nominees include world-class athletes from a variety of sports, each with a unique and inspiring story. From Olympic champions to cricketing legends, BBC SPOTY 2024 promises to be a memorable celebration of talent, determination, and sporting excellence.
What is the BBC Sports Personality of the Year?
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) is a yearly awards ceremony that celebrates the most exceptional sporting talent from across the UK. It is not just about athletic ability — it also recognises sportsmanship, dedication, and the ability to inspire the nation.
First held in 1954, the inaugural award was won by Christopher Chataway, a British runner known for his world-record-breaking performances. Since then, the list of winners has featured household names like David Beckham, Paula Radcliffe, Mo Farah, and Andy Murray. The event has since expanded to include additional awards, such as:
- Team of the Year
- Coach of the Year
- Helen Rollason Award for Courage
- Young Sports Personality of the Year
The event is broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, attracting millions of viewers across the UK. The public vote adds to the excitement, with fans getting the chance to crown their sporting hero of the year.
Key Dates for BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024
For those looking to watch or participate in this year’s SPOTY event, here are the key dates to keep in mind:
| Event | Date | Details |
| Nominees Announced | Early December 2024 | BBC reveals the official shortlist. |
| Voting Opens | Same Day as the Ceremony | Fans can vote online or by phone. |
| Event Date | December 2024 (TBC) | Live broadcast on BBC One & iPlayer. |
| Location | To Be Announced | Likely a major UK city (previously Manchester, Salford). |
The exact venue and date for BBC SPOTY 2024 are yet to be confirmed, but it is traditionally held in December. Fans can watch the event live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 Nominees
The list of nominees is one of the most eagerly awaited announcements in the sporting world. The nominees for BBC SPOTY 2024 are selected based on their sporting achievements, public impact, and their role as ambassadors for their respective sports. Here are some of the top contenders for 2024:
1. Keely Hodgkinson (Athletics – 800m Champion)
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Why She Deserves to Win:
Keely Hodgkinson has had a phenomenal 2024. Competing in one of the most demanding track events, the 800m, Keely secured a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics, solidifying her status as one of the top middle-distance runners in the world. Her victory was not just a personal triumph but also a proud moment for the UK, as she dominated the track with grace, power, and precision.
Major Achievements in 2024:
- Olympic Gold Medal – 800m event at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
- European Championships – Continued dominance in European track events.
- World Athletics Recognition – Her name is now mentioned alongside global legends in middle-distance running.
Keely’s calm, composed attitude under pressure has earned her respect worldwide. Fans see her as a symbol of perseverance, especially after she narrowly missed gold in previous years. Her journey to Olympic glory has been inspiring for young athletes in the UK. With her track success fresh in the minds of the public, she is one of the favourites for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024.
2. Luke Littler (Darts – Rising Star of the Oche)
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Why He Deserves to Win:
At just 17 years old, Luke Littler is a darts prodigy making waves in the world of professional darts. Known for his precision, accuracy, and calmness under pressure, Luke has been hailed as the next big thing in the sport. His performances in the 2024 Premier League Darts have drawn attention from sports media and fans alike.
Major Achievements in 2024:
- Breakout Year – Made a name for himself in the PDC Darts Championship.
- Youthful Excellence – Despite his young age, he has competed against seasoned professionals and held his own.
- Rising Fan Favourite – His passion and flair for the game have won him a loyal following.
Darts has seen a resurgence in recent years, with Luke Littler leading the next generation of young stars. He embodies the idea that age is just a number, showing that even the youngest players can compete at the highest level. Given the BBC SPOTY award’s history of rewarding rising stars, Luke could be the surprise winner of 2024.
3. Jude Bellingham (Football – Real Madrid Superstar)
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Why He Deserves to Win:
When it comes to football, few players have made headlines in 2024 quite like Jude Bellingham. His transfer to Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund was one of the most talked-about moves of the season. Since then, he has gone on to dominate in La Liga and the Champions League, with match-winning performances and crucial goals.
Major Achievements in 2024:
- Key Role at Real Madrid – Bellingham has become a central figure in one of the most iconic football teams in the world.
- Champions League Performances – Scored key goals that secured wins for Real Madrid.
- Impact on England’s National Team – As a key member of the England squad, he has played a pivotal role in UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers.
At just 21, Jude Bellingham is already being compared to football greats like Zinedine Zidane and Steven Gerrard. His blend of technical ability, leadership, and maturity beyond his years has made him one of the most talked-about footballers in the world. If his performances continue, he is highly likely to win BBC SPOTY 2024. His widespread popularity and media presence also give him a strong edge in the public voting process.
4. Joe Root (Cricket – Ashes Hero and Cricketing Legend)
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Why He Deserves to Win:
For cricket fans, Joe Root is a name that needs no introduction. The former England Test captain is regarded as one of the finest cricketers of his generation. His heroic performances in the 2024 Ashes series were a major talking point of the year. Despite Australia being one of England’s toughest opponents, Root’s batting displays were nothing short of legendary.
Major Achievements in 2024:
- Standout Performer in the 2024 Ashes Series – Scored vital centuries to keep England in the hunt.
- World-Class Batting – Consistently ranks among the top Test batsmen in the ICC rankings.
- Leadership and Mentorship – Even after stepping down as captain, he remains a key leader in the team.
Root has always been a fan-favourite due to his humility, grit, and consistency. His match-winning performances during the Ashes made headlines across the UK, reigniting interest in Test cricket. If England cricket fans rally behind him during the voting stage, Joe Root could very well claim the SPOTY 2024 crown.
5. Sarah Storey (Cycling – Paralympic Greatness Personified)
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Why She Deserves to Win:
Few athletes can boast a career as illustrious as Sarah Storey. With an incredible tally of 17 Paralympic gold medals, she is the most decorated British Paralympian of all time. In 2024, she continued to dominate her sport, showing that she remains a force to be reckoned with in Paralympic cycling.
Major Achievements in 2024:
- More Gold Medals – Added to her long list of Paralympic golds.
- Advocacy and Mentorship – A role model for athletes with disabilities, Sarah actively supports young para-athletes.
- Paralympic Legend – Continues to raise the bar for what can be achieved in cycling.
Sarah Storey is already considered one of the most iconic athletes in British sporting history. Her impact goes beyond sport, inspiring young people and advocating for disability rights. Her inclusion on the BBC SPOTY 2024 shortlist would be a well-deserved recognition of her incredible career and ongoing legacy.
6. Alex Yee (Triathlon – British Triathlon Champion)
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Why He Deserves to Win:
Alex Yee has established himself as one of the best triathletes in the world. His incredible endurance, strategy, and physical strength have led him to victories at the 2024 Triathlon World Championships. Competing in three different disciplines — swimming, cycling, and running — Alex’s performances have been nothing short of superhuman.
Major Achievements in 2024:
- Triathlon World Champion 2024 – Claimed gold at the world championships, beating elite competition.
- Olympic Qualification – Secured his spot for the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics.
- Global Dominance – Proved his ability to compete and win against the world’s best triathletes.
Triathlon is one of the most physically demanding sports, and Alex Yee’s ability to stay at the top of his game is a testament to his work ethic and determination. As a rising star, he represents a new generation of multi-sport athletes. His achievements make him a deserving contender for BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024.
How Are the Nominees Chosen?
The nomination process for SPOTY is designed to be fair and transparent. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Shortlisting – A panel of sports journalists, BBC executives, and sporting figures convene to review the year’s most outstanding athletes.
- Nominee Announcement – The official shortlist is announced in early December, just weeks before the ceremony.
- Public Vote – On the night of the event, the public can vote for their favourite nominee online or via phone.
- Winner Announcement – The votes are counted live, and the winner is announced at the end of the show.
This system ensures that the winner is chosen not just by a panel of experts but also by the public.
How to Watch the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024
You can watch BBC SPOTY 2024 via:
- BBC One – Watch live on television.
- BBC iPlayer – Stream live on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
If you’re outside the UK, you may need a VPN to access the BBC’s live stream.
Conclusion
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 is more than just an awards ceremony — it’s a celebration of sporting excellence. This year’s lineup of contenders promises an exciting night of inspiration, recognition, and celebration.
Don’t miss your chance to vote and support your favourite athlete as they aim for one of the most prestigious accolades in British sport.
FAQs About BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024
Who are the favourites to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024?
Favourites include Jude Bellingham, Keely Hodgkinson, and Joe Root.
How can I vote for my favourite nominee?
On the day of the ceremony, you can vote online at the BBC SPOTY official website or via phone.
When is the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 event?
The event is expected to be held in December 2024, but the exact date is yet to be confirmed.
Where can I watch the BBC SPOTY 2024 live?
You can watch it on BBC One or stream it on BBC iPlayer.
How are the nominees for BBC SPOTY selected?
Nominees are chosen by a panel of experts and announced in December 2024.
Which sports are represented in BBC SPOTY 2024?
Sports such as football, athletics, cricket, cycling, triathlon, and darts are represented.
Can I attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event in person?
Yes, tickets are available, but they are in high demand. Check the BBC website for ticket announcements.
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