Lionesses, Red Roses and Europe Ryder Cup Up for BBC SPOTY Team Award
England’s Lionesses women’s football team, the Red Roses rugby union squad, and Team Europe’s 2025 Ryder Cup side are among the leading contenders for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Team of the Year award, with the shortlist confirmed ahead of the live ceremony on 18 December in Salford and the winner to be decided by public vote.
The announcement arrives after a standout year in British sport, with the Lionesses defending their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 title, the Red Roses securing the Women’s Rugby World Cup crown, and Europe clinching a dramatic 15–13 Ryder Cup victory in the United States.
Lionesses Aim to Cap Historic Year
England’s Lionesses earned their nomination by becoming only the second nation to retain the European Championship, holding their nerve in a penalty shootout against Spain in the final in July. Head coach Sarina Wiegman welcomed the team’s inclusion on the shortlist.
“It’s a testament to the grit and belief of every player,” Wiegman said after the shortlist was revealed. “Winning back-to-back European titles and being recognised like this is truly special.”
The Lionesses also became the first senior England team in any sport to lift a major trophy on foreign soil, a milestone achievement that underlined their influence on the women’s game this year.
Red Roses Look to Inspire Nation
The Red Roses earned their nomination after a commanding 33-13 victory over Canada in front of a record crowd of 81,885 at Twickenham, securing England’s first Women’s Rugby World Cup title in 11 years and extending their unbeaten run to 33 matches.
“To be recognised by the BBC alongside such iconic teams means a great deal,” said Red Roses head coach John Mitchell. “This team’s effort has been about inspiring the next generation as much as winning trophies.”
Europe Ryder Cup Side Completes Shortlist Trifecta
Completing the triumvirate of nominated teams is Team Europe, captained by Rory McIlroy, whose Ryder Cup unit edged out the United States at Bethpage Black, marking only Europe’s fifth victory on American soil and setting up a compelling public vote.
“It was one of the toughest battles of my career,” McIlroy said. “Standing alongside these team members and lifting that Cup makes this nomination even more meaningful.”
Historic Line-Up Reflects Exceptional Year
The 2025 SPOTY shortlist reflects one of the most remarkable seasons in British sport, showcasing achievements across football, rugby and golf. Public voting opens immediately and will determine which of these celebrated teams secures the Team of the Year award during the live broadcast.
This year’s process is notable for giving the public direct power to decide the winning team, a shift that has already generated widespread discussion among fans and pundits alike.