England and Arsenal footballer Chloe Kelly has declared that the BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist is a powerful signal that women's sport is "here to stay". The star is one of three female athletes nominated for the prestigious main award, reflecting a landmark year for women's achievements in sport.
A Celebration of Sporting Excellence
The six-person shortlist for the 2025 award, announced ahead of Thursday's ceremony at MediaCity in Salford, features a formidable mix of talent. Kelly is joined by fellow Lioness Hannah Hampton and Women's Rugby World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne. They are nominated alongside darts world champion Luke Littler, Masters golf winner Rory McIlroy, and Formula One world champion Lando Norris.
"I'll be buzzing for every winner, any winner, because the representation of sports at the minute is incredible," said Kelly. "I think it shows where women's sport is right now... it shows women's sport is on the up and women's sport is here to stay. We're going nowhere."
Nominees' Stellar Year of Achievement
The nominees have each enjoyed a phenomenal 2025. Kelly and Hampton played pivotal roles as the Lionesses successfully defended their European Championship crown. Kelly also overcame serious mental health challenges early in the year to help Arsenal win the Women's Champions League.
Ellie Kildunne was instrumental in England's Women's Rugby World Cup victory. On the men's side, 17-year-old Luke Littler became the youngest-ever darts world champion and rose to world number one. Rory McIlroy completed the career Grand Slam by winning the Masters before starring in Europe's Ryder Cup win, while Lando Norris secured his first Formula One drivers' championship.
Broader Awards and Lasting Impact
The influence of women's team sports is further recognised in the Team of the Year category. The Lionesses and England's women's rugby union squad are shortlisted alongside Luke Donald's European Ryder Cup team.
For Kelly, the night is about collective celebration. "It's a night to celebrate sport across the board," she stated. "There will be so much talent there on the night, which is so special. I'm honoured to be nominated."
The ceremony will also present the Helen Rollason Award, Young Sports Personality of the Year, Coach of the Year, and a Lifetime Achievement award, capping off an evening that underscores the dynamic and permanent shift in the British sporting landscape.
