What's happened
Josh Kerr has delivered a landmark season, winning the Ultimate Championship 1500m and collecting multiple titles, as Amy Hunt also posts a record-breaking year. The duo’s success fuels discussion over BBC SPOTY selection amid a strong athletics year.
What's behind the headline?
Key takeaways
- Kerr’s season has been judged as among the best in British middle-distance history.
- Hunt’s four European golds have elevated her status and sparked debate about SPOTY nominations.
- The BBC’s informal shortlisting policy is under scrutiny as both athletes contend for the award.
What this means
- Expect renewed calls for broader, more inclusive shortlists in future years.
- The sport may see increased public interest and participation following high-profile successes.
How we got here
Kerr has dominated the indoor and outdoor season, including a world mile record and Commonwealth Games success, while Hunt has secured four European golds in Birmingham and a string of medals across events.
Our analysis
The Guardian and Independent report on Kerr and Hunt’s season and SPOTY considerations, highlighting their performances and the BBC shortlist debate.
Go deeper
- Will Kerr and Hunt both feature on a final SPOTY shortlist?
- What impact do these performances have on athletics’ popularity?
- Who might compete for the final spot if both are included?
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