BBC announce new format for SPOTY 2018

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BBC announce new format for SPOTY 2018 Posted On 12 December 2018

In a shock twist, the BBC Sports Personality nominees will be announced live on the show, as opposed to the weeks leading up to the event

Traditionally, the much-anticipated 12-person shortlist of SPOTY nominees is revealed prior to the live show; however, viewers will only find out who to vote for on the night.

Gary Lineker, Gabby Logan and Clare Balding will present this year’s show – now in its 65th year – at Birmingham’s Genting Arena on Sunday 16th December.

The public will also vote on the Greatest Sporting Moment of the Year, as well as the Lifetime Achievement, Team of the Year and Coach of the Year awards.

The nominations for the Helen Rollason award, which recognises an outstanding achievement in the face of adversity, are already open. The BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year has been renamed World Sport Star of the Year and votes can be cast from those living outside the UK for the first time.

Director of BBC Sport Barbara Slater said: “BBC Sports Personality of the Year is a much-loved BBC show that is constantly evolving. Announcing the much-anticipated shortlist at the start of the show will add even another layer of excitement to what is set to be a thrilling night for everyone.”

2018 has been a memorable year for UK sport which could mean one of the most competitive SPOTY’s in recent years. After missing out last year, heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua will hope to be in the running after adding another world title to his collection, when he beat Joseph Parker in March and Alexander Povetkin in September.

Lewis Hamilton claimed his fifth Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship at the Mexico Grand Prix in October, while Dina Asher-Smith’s triple gold medal success at the European Championships in Berlin this summer could see her among the favourites. Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas’, World Cup Golden Boot winner Harry Kane and Winter Olympian Lizzy Yarnold could also be contention.

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year show will take place in front of a live audience and broadcast live on BBC One from 7pm on Sunday 16th December.