Sports Personality of the Year betting preview 2024

Key contenders, events and betting outlook 2024

This expanded preview looks at likely SPOTY contenders, how major summer events could shift markets, and what bettors should bear in mind. It offers context for horse racing and football fans and guidance on using bookmaker comparisons responsibly.

Frankie Dettori: form, fixtures and SPOTY chances

Frankie Dettori’s late‑career surge and high‑profile rides make him a clear headline candidate in markets focused on memorable moments. His remaining big‑race fixtures and potential farewell wins will strongly influence voters and bookies alike.

Existing coverage and initial bookmaker markets summary

Despite having only crept into the sporting summer, that has not stopped bookmakers going early for Sports Personality of the Year.

And this year, it could just be Frankie Dettori‘s time.

Dettori well-placed

As the veteran jockey continues his swansong tour, victory aboard Soul Sister in The Oaks saw his odds slashed.

Though Arrest did not play ball for an historic Derby double, Dettori is still gunning for big race wins before the flat season is out.

Dettori is yet to win SPOTY’s main award.

However, the Italian was third in 1996 behind Damon Hill and Sir Steve Redgrave.

His memorable super seven at Ascot in September of that year, put racing back in the headlines.

To date, AP McCoy is the only jockey to have scooped the prize.

In his 15th attempt, the 20-time consecutive Champion Jockey finally landed Grand National victory aboard Don’t Push It in 2010.

Returning to Royal Ascot this year, Dettori looks set to ride the wondrous Desert Crown.

Should the 4yo colt follow last year’s Derby success with a winning outing in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, he will be well-set.

And after 35 years in the saddle, it will perhaps be a fitting send-off for one of Britain’s favourite adopted sons at 7/2 with Betfred.

Ashes, World Cup could thwart

For the moment, Dettori edges the betting and could be a sure thing come December.

However, two particular events this year stand to deny him a first win.

Firstly, with the Ashes beginning this week, England look to regain the urn after a 4-0 drubbing Down Under.

Having been pipped last year, Ben Stokes leads his ‘Bazball’ side against The Baggy Greens.

A series win would catapult him into the box seat, however, both James Anderson and Stuart Broad in possibly their final Ashes, may rival their own skipper.

Whilst Stokes is widely 9/2, Anderson sits at 17s with BetUK. Stuart Broad is rather weightier 50/1 with William Hill.

The other strong competition to Dettori’s hopes come in the shape of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

A year on from winning UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, England’s Lionesses are one of the favourites for glory.

Ranked number four in the world, England beat Brazil in the recent Finallissima at Wembley.

The US and German ladies will be tough to eventually conquer but there is very real optimism that England could return from Australia and New Zealand with the trophy.

Should that happen, Team of the Year will surely be sewn up for a successive year.

Not only that, but after Beth Mead won SPOTY last year, stand-in England skipper Millie Bright and forward Alessia Russo may become picks for top honours.

Of the two, as an injured Leah Williamson watches on from home, Bright looks the better hope but still for a meaty 28/1 with BetVictor.

Cavendish tops outsiders

Two other potential names are Mark Cavendish and Keely Hodgkinson.

In the case of former, The Manx Missile won SPOTY in 2011 and in this summer’s Tour De France can make history.

With both Cav and Eddie Merckx sitting on 34 stage wins, Cavendish needs just one win to move clear.

Meanwhile, Hodgkinson will look to win 800m Gold at the World Athletics Championships in August.

Held this year in Budapest, the Lancashire middle distance goes up against both last year’s champion Athing Mu and Kenya’s Mary Moraa.

If successful, the 21-year-old will go one step further to the silver she took at Tokyo 2020.

Kelly Holmes won SPOTY in 2004 for her historic 800-1500m double in Athens that year; Should Hodgkinson take the podium top spot, her odds may tumble.

Cavendish remains the shorter price between 10s and 16/1, whilst Hodgkinson is a loftier 25/1 – again with William Hill.

Cricket candidates: Ashes implications for SPOTY status

A standout Ashes series from Ben Stokes or long‑serving fast bowlers could re‑order SPOTY markets quickly and attract strong public votes. Historic narratives — final tours, record milestones and match‑winning performances — often translate into SPOTY momentum.

Football and Lionesses: World Cup impact on award voting

A deep World Cup run or a tournament‑defining moment from an England player would likely hand multiple candidates a strong case for SPOTY. Team success can also push an individual into contention for the main award or for Team of the Year recognition.

Outsiders to watch: Cavendish, Hodgkinson and others

Outside favourites can gain dramatic traction by matching or beating records, such as Cavendish equalling Merckx’s stage total at the Tour, or Hodgkinson winning major global medals. Bookies price those scenarios as higher odds but sudden headlines can collapse markets fast.

How bookmakers set SPOTY markets and key factors

Bookmakers balance public sentiment, recent form and media coverage when opening and adjusting SPOTY markets. Major events, injuries and retirements are primary drivers of price movement as the year progresses.

Responsible betting: age limits and safe gambling advice

All content on this site is for readers aged 18 and over and for informational purposes only. If you choose to place bets, do so responsibly and never stake more than you can afford to lose.

Using bookmaker comparisons and offers without pressure

Comparison tools can help you view odds and promotions across firms but should not be treated as financial advice. You can explore current bookmaker offers through our comparison tools if you choose to bet responsibly.

How to interpret SPOTY odds through the season

Short‑term odds shifts reflect recent results and publicity, while longer‑term favourites usually combine sustained achievement with public recognition. Watch for volatility around big fixtures and major tournaments when markets are most reactive.

Practical tips for following markets and candidates

Track candidate performance in key events, monitor injury news and consider voting sentiment shaped by high‑visibility moments. Remember that SPOTY combines sporting achievement with public impact, so memorable narratives matter.

All readers must be 18 or over to participate in any betting activity and are encouraged to use gambling‑safety tools such as deposit limits and self‑exclusion where appropriate.

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Common questions on SPOTY betting and candidate odds

Who are the main favourites for SPOTY this year

Favourites rotate with major results, but Frankie Dettori, leading England cricketers and Lionesses stars are commonly priced near the top. Market leaders emerge from high‑profile wins or headline moments during the season.

How do major events affect SPOTY betting markets quickly

High‑visibility tournaments like the Ashes and the Women’s World Cup trigger intense market movement as public interest spikes and bookmakers adjust prices. Single match moments can have outsized influence on short‑term odds.

Can retirement and farewell tours boost a contender’s chances

Yes — a celebrated send‑off or final season performance often amplifies public sentiment and media coverage, which can increase a candidate’s SPOTY prospects. These narratives are factored strongly by voters and bookies alike.

Are outsider candidates worth monitoring during the season

Outsiders can become viable if they create memorable, headline‑grabbing achievements or set new records during major events. They typically carry larger odds but can move quickly after standout performances.

How should I use bookmaker comparisons responsibly

Use comparison tools to check odds and offers, but avoid chasing losses or staking money you cannot afford to lose. Responsible use means researching and setting personal limits before placing any bets.

What resources help follow SPOTY betting without pressure

Timely sports news, official event schedules and reputable odds comparison sites offer useful context for SPOTY markets. Always prioritise balanced information and avoid sensational headlines when forming an opinion.

Where can I get help if betting becomes a problem

If gambling is causing harm, seek support from UK organisations such as GamCare or GamStop and consider setting limits or self‑exclusion. Help is available and it’s important to act early.