Sir Bradley Wiggins is among the five authors shortlisted for the 2026 William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award, with his book The Chain in the running for the £25,000 top prize. The annual award, established in 1989, is considered the most prestigious in sports writing, recognising excellence and achievement in the genre.
Shortlist Features Diverse Sporting Narratives
This year’s shortlist was selected from a 12-book longlist and features a range of sports and personal stories. The nominated titles are:
- The Chain by Sir Bradley Wiggins
- This Is Not About Running by Mary Cain
- The Power Within by Sophie Power
- The Impossible Job by William Ralston
- The Fall and Rise of the Mölkky Bar Kids by Neil Squires
The books explore themes such as personal experience, resilience, and the demands of competitive sport. Notably, this year marks the first time a book on Finnish skittles, known as Mölkky, has been featured on the shortlist.
Award Ceremony and Judging Panel
The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, 24 November. The author of the winning book will receive £25,000 and the William Hill Sports Book of the Year trophy. Each of the other shortlisted authors will be awarded £2,500 and a leather-bound edition of their book.
This year’s judging panel includes Adrian Durham, Elis James, Mark Lawson, Christine Ohuruogu, and Michelle Walder, who are tasked with selecting the winner from the strong shortlist. Last year’s award went to The Escape: The Tour, the Cyclist and Me by Pippa York and David Walsh.
Relevance for the Betting and Publishing Sector
The William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award remains a significant cultural event for both the betting industry and the sports publishing sector. For operators, the award provides a high-profile platform to highlight sporting achievement and engagement beyond wagering. Affiliates and suppliers can leverage the event's visibility to connect with broader audiences interested in sports culture and history. The diversity of the shortlist also underscores the expanding range of sports narratives gaining recognition, reflecting shifting interests among readers and bettors alike.
Key takeaways
- Five authors, including Sir Bradley Wiggins, are shortlisted for the 2026 William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award.
- The winner will be announced on 24 November and will receive a £25,000 prize.
- The shortlist highlights a variety of sports and personal stories, including a first-time entry on Finnish skittles.
- The award continues to offer exposure and prestige for sports writers, publishers, and industry stakeholders.