Sam Fender won the 2025 Mercury Prize on October 16 for his third album, People Watching. The ceremony took place at Newcastle's Utilita Arena, marking the first time the award was held outside London.

The album was chosen from a shortlist of 12, including Pulp, CMAT, Fontaines D.C., Wolf Alice and FKA twigs. The judges described People Watching as a portrait of working-class life in northern England, with songs that are both cinematic and intimate.

Fender, who was born in North Shields, received the trophy from broadcaster and DJ Sian Eleri and performed the title track for the crowd. The prize includes £25,000.

Visibly moved, the musician said he did not expect to win and thanked the region where he grew up. The 2025 edition was the first held outside the British capital.