Gabby Logan sparks backlash over 'woke' sign-off instead of 'Merry Christmas'

BBC Sports Personality of the Year: Chris Hoy delivers speech

Gabby Logan has sparked widespread backlash online after she gave a rather unusual sign-off at the end of Sports Personality of the Year.

The BBC presenter, who hosted the annual awards ceremony alongside Alex Scott and Clare Balding, told viewers at the end of the programme a rather different saying instead of the traditional 'Merry Christmas.'

The 51 year old opted for a more simple 'Happy Festive season' to fans at home, however it has prompted a row online and many viewers have lashed out at the BBC for becoming 'woke.'

One person moaned on X: "@BBCSport #SportsPersonalityoftheYear ‘happy and healthy festive season’ Gabby Logan what’s wrong with saying Christmas or is that word banned incase someone is offended?"

A second person also commented: "Sports personality evening marred by Gabby Logan wishing us all a very happy festive season, have we become afraid of saying Christmas?"

A third typed: "Why did Gabby Logan wish everyone a happy festive season and not a happy Christmas #SPOTY."

A fourth also chimed in: "Gabby Logan on bbc .Enjoy the festive season. ITS MERRY CHRISTMAS ffs."

The BBC have been contacted for comment by Express Online.

Gabby Logan has prompted backlash online (Image: Getty)

Earlier in the evening, Keely Hodgkinson won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.

The 22-year-old middle-distance runner won the gold medal in the women’s 800 metres at the Paris Olympic Games, and she's now claimed the coveted accolade ahead of England cricketer Joe Root and darts player Luke Littler.

Hodgkinson - who remained unbeaten throughout the athletics season - said after receiving her award: "I am in shock.

"This year has been absolutely incredible for me. I have achieved everything I wanted to on the outdoor track."

The runner also felt proud to follow in the footsteps of some "British icons", including the likes of Sir Andy Murray and Sir Lewis Hamilton.