The BBC’s iconic Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) event faced a wave of criticism this year as numerous viewers reportedly tuned out within minutes of the broadcast. The annual awards
show, a staple in British sports culture, has been accused by some fans of losing its charm and relevance in recent years, with this year’s edition sparking a noticeable backlash on social media.
Viewers took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their dissatisfaction, citing issues ranging from predictable programming to a lack of diversity in the featured sports. Many complained that the broadcast failed to engage them, with some describing the show as “a tired format” and “more of the same every year.”
One common critique revolved around the selection of highlights, which some fans felt disproportionately focused on a handful of mainstream sports while neglecting achievements in less-publicized disciplines. Others lamented the absence of a fresh approach, with one viewer tweeting, “It’s the same old faces, the same old clips, and nothing to keep you hooked. I switched off after 10 minutes.”
The declining engagement is reflected in recent years’ audience numbers, which have steadily dropped from the peak viewership of over 10 million in the 2000s. While the BBC has made efforts to modernize the program by incorporating social media interactions and diverse stories, it appears the changes haven’t been enough to satisfy all fans.
Despite the criticism, the SPOTY award remains one of the most prestigious accolades in British sports. This year’s shortlist includes top athletes from various disciplines, but even that has sparked debate, with some questioning the criteria used to determine the nominees.
The BBC has yet to issue a statement addressing the backlash, but it remains to be seen whether they will overhaul the format to reignite public interest in future editions. For now, the show continues to divide opinions, with some fans calling for a complete rethink of how the iconic event is presented.
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