BBC viewers say the same thing minutes into Sports Personality of the Year 2025

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Six sporting heroes have been shortlisted for Sports Personality of the Year, with BBC audiences casting their votes over recent days to crown their 2024 champion.

The contenders feature England football stars Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly , darts sensation Luke Littler, golfing icon Rory McIlroy , and Formula One ace Lando Norris .

Yet within minutes of Sports Personality of the Year 2024 beginning, audiences were swift to voice identical grumbles about the show, which broadcast at 7pm tonight (Thursday, December 19).

Taking to X, one BBC enthusiast observed, "I always thought #SPOTY was on a Sunday..." while another declared, "Worst opening montage I've ever seen/heard."

A third contributor stated: "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," reports the Express .

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Another viewer lamented: "#Spoty on a Thursday night sad!"

Traditionally, the programme had been scheduled for Sunday evenings, though it has been shifted to better suit the diaries of athletic personalities.

Regardless of the criticism, other watchers were eager to discover the victor, with one individual posting: "I haven't watched #SPOTY in years - but I hope @McIlroyRory wins it!"

Another supporter commented: "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."

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

The 47-year-old, who retired in 2014, was chosen by BBC Sport's senior management, who regard him as one of the Premier League's finest players ever. In a touching scene, the football legend's young children presented him with the prestigious honour.

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

He subsequently dedicated the accolade to his children in a moving gesture that brought tears to the eyes of viewers.

The main victor was announced at the programme's conclusion as Rory, who was greeted with thunderous applause from those in attendance.