SUBMISSIONS
Sports Podcast of the Year
SUBMISSIONS ARE NOW CLOSED
We are delighted to open submissions for the inaugural Sports Podcast of the Year, in association with Sport Social Podcast Network.
This award celebrates the very best in sports podcasting — from insightful analysis and investigative interviews to entertaining, personality-driven shows. We want to recognise podcasts that shape conversation, connect with audiences, and showcase creativity, storytelling, and high production values.
Alongside the addition of our Sports Audiobook of the Year award, these two new categories reflect the full range of outstanding sports storytelling in today’s media landscape.
Key dates
Submissions close: 31st March
Shortlist announced: 23rd April
Awards ceremony: 21st May
Criteria
Winning podcasts should demonstrate:
- Exceptional storytelling and creative flair
- Strong production values
- Content that engages audiences and keeps them coming back
- Clear understanding and effective communication of the subject matter
Submission Requirements
Why you should win: Up to 300 words explaining how the podcast serves a specific target audience, the value it brings, and the impact it has had (supported by listener numbers, feedback, or anecdotal evidence).
Audio: A link to a single podcast episode that best represents your work; please include both Spotify and Apple Podcasts links.
Supporting content: Up to three documents or links (images, screenshots, video, or social media posts) illustrating your podcast story.
Qualification period: Podcasts based in the UK and aired during 2025 are eligible.
Cost: £95 + VAT per entry: Multiple entries accepted, but each must be for a separate podcast.
Consent & Contact: Confirm that all hosts and regular contributors agree to the submission and provide contact details.
Judging Process
Entries will be scored out of 40 by a panel of expert judges, with 1–10 points awarded for:
- Creativity
- Production
- Storytelling
- Audience engagement
Judges will also consider the resources available to each creator, recognising that budgets and support can influence the final audio output.
Official Podcast Partner – Sport Social Podcast Network
Sport Social Podcast Network is proud to support the inaugural Best Podcast Award at the prestigious Sports Book Awards, celebrating the very best in sporting storytelling. As Europe’s largest sport podcast network, we believe deeply in the power of podcasting to bring stories to life in ways that are as rich, immersive and emotionally resonant as the written word.
Podcasts have become one of the most important storytelling formats for modern sports fans, offering depth, personality and immediacy that sit perfectly alongside the long‑form narratives championed by these awards.
Our involvement reflects our commitment to championing the podcast industry, supporting creators, and elevating the incredible work being done across the sports podcast landscape.
