British athletes Josh Kerr and Amy Hunt are leading contenders for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, according to bookmakers' odds. Hunt is currently the even-money favourite, with Kerr in second place, ahead of Harry Kane.
Despite their successful seasons, both athletes are reportedly cautious about their selection for the six-person shortlist. Kerr stated, "It's not a given, that's the reality," following his Ultimate Championship win in Budapest.
Kerr's caution stems from the BBC's informal policy, which has historically shown a reluctance to include two athletes from the same sport on the shortlist. This policy was reportedly deviated from only twice since 2017, in 2019 for Dina Asher-Smith and Katarina Johnson-Thompson, and for Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly, both instances helping to balance the male-female split.
Kerr's achievements this year include breaking a world mile record that had stood for 27 years, and securing titles at the world indoor, Commonwealth Games, and Ultimate Championship. Hunt made history by becoming the first person to win four gold medals at the European Athletics Championships in its 96-year history.
Hunt expressed hope for both track and field athletes to be recognised, stating, "I think it would be incredibly special if we could get two track and field athletes on the Spoty shortlist."