Thierry Henry To Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Legendary footballer Thierry Henry will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year's BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony, recognising his exceptional contribution to sport and his lasting impact both on and off the football pitch.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history, Henry enjoyed a career spanning more than two decades. He is Arsenal’s all-time leading goal scorer and was a key member of the France squads that won the FIFA World Cup in 1998 and the UEFA European Championship in 2000. Renowned for his pace, technique and goal-scoring prowess, Henry helped redefine attacking football and inspired generations of players and supporters around the world.

Since retiring from professional play, Henry has remained influential in the game as a coach, pundit and ambassador. He has been involved in mentoring young players, promoting diversity within football and supporting a range of social causes, further strengthening his reputation as both a sporting icon and a role model.

"Football has given me everything and I gave it my all. To be recognised as part of its history with this Lifetime Achievement award and to have made my mark for the fans and my teammates is something I’ll never take for granted," said Henry.

Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, said: "Thierry Henry was not only one of the greatest players in the Premier League, but a global icon of football. His influence on football culture make him a deserving winner of the SPOTY Lifetime Achievement award. At BBC Sport, we are proud to celebrate a career that has inspired millions and continues to shape the football today."

The SPOTY Lifetime Achievement Award recognises individuals whose careers have left a lasting legacy in sport. Henry joins a distinguished list of previous recipients, including Billie Jean King, Pelé, Sir Bobby Charlton, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, David Beckham, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Sir Chris Hoy, Simone Biles, Usain Bolt, Sir Kenny Dalglish and last year’s winner, Sir Mark Cavendish.

BBC Sports Personality of the Year will be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer from 7pm to 9pm tomorrow, Thursday 18 December 2025. The ceremony will be hosted by Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott.

www.bbc.co.uk