On 25th September 2025, William Hill announced the longlist for its esteemed Sports Book of the Year Award, a prize that has carved a niche as the most prestigious in the sports literary world since its inception in 1989. The award has been a beacon for exceptional sports writing, with previous winners like Duncan Hamilton, Michael Holding, and last year’s triumphant Conor Niland, whose memoir, “The Racket,” illuminated the ups and downs of his tennis career.
This year, the judging panel, chaired by Alyson Rudd and featuring notable figures such as Clarke Carlisle, Elis James, Gabby Logan, Mark Lawson, Dame Heather Rabbatts, and Michelle Wilder, faces the challenging task of selecting from a longlist of 15 books that cover a wide spectrum of sports-related topics. The shortlist is set to be announced on 30th October, narrowing down the competition before the grand ceremony in November.
The 2025 longlist showcases a rich diversity of topics, reflecting the ability of sports to transcend the mere act of play and delve into cultural, personal, and societal narratives. The chosen books include:
1. “Finding the Edge” by Jimmy Anderson
2. “Ultra Women” by Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson
3. “I Can’t Stop Thinking About VAR” by Daisy Christodoulou
4. “The Warrior” by Christopher Clarey
5. “States of Play” by Miguel Delaney
6. “More Than a Shirt” by Joey D’Urso
7. “European Football’s Greatest Grounds” by Leon Gladwell
8. “Chasing Salah” by Simon Hughes
9. “The Last Bell” by Donald McRae
10. “Engulfed” by James Montague
11. “Go to War” by Jon Spurling
12. “The Escape” by Pippa York and David Walsh
13. “Test Cricket” by Tim Wigmore
14. “The Power and The Glory” by Jonathan Wilson
15. “The Art of Batting” by Jarrod Kimber
Neil Foggin, Media Manager at William Hill and part of the initial reading panel, expressed enthusiasm over the depth and range of this year’s entries. For him, the process of narrowing down the entries was both daunting and exhilarating, given the high quality and variety of topics presented. “We’ve been surprised and inspired by the breadth of subjects covered this year,” he noted. From the inner workings of cricket and football to the broader cultural narratives told through sport, the longlist highlights the storytelling power of sports literature.
Notably, Donald McRae, longlisted for “The Last Bell,” is vying for a record-equalling third win, having previously bagged the award in 1996 and 2002. Duncan Hamilton currently holds the record with three wins, setting a competitive edge for this year’s contest.
While some might argue that the award has traditionally favored certain sports over others, this year’s list makes a compelling case for inclusivity, spanning across various sports from cricket to athletics and beyond. This eclectic mix ensures a broader appeal and demonstrates an evolution in sports literature, catering to readers with diverse interests.
The anticipation surrounding the announcement of the shortlist is palpable, with the final decision resting on the shoulders of the experienced judging panel. As they deliberate over the coming month, the challenge will be to distill this rich pool of talent into a select few, each embodying the essence of what makes sports writing influential and enduring.
Critics of the award often suggest that its focus remains too narrow, occasionally overlooking groundbreaking works that might not fit traditional notions of what sports literature encompasses. However, the inclusion of titles like “Engulfed” by James Montague, which explores global sporting cultures, indicates a shift towards recognizing the expansive reach of sports narratives.
The winner, to be announced at the official ceremony on 25th November, will receive not only the coveted William Hill Sports Book of the Year trophy but also a £30,000 cash prize. Shortlisted authors won’t leave empty-handed either; each will receive a leather-bound copy of their book and £3,000 in cash.
As the sports world continues to evolve, so too does its literature, reflecting changes in society and the growing complexity of global sporting landscapes. This year’s longlist stands as a testament to the dynamic nature of sports writing, celebrating stories that entertain, challenge, and inspire readers across the globe. As the countdown to the award night begins, the literary community watches in anticipation, eager to see which book will join the ranks of past winners in this prestigious celebration of sports writing.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
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