Hamilton set to snub SPOTY awards night

LEWIS Hamilton has revealed it is unlikely he will attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, despite being among the frontrunners to win the prize.

Hamilton, 33, is expected to be on the six-person shortlist which, for the first time, will be announced during the live show that this year takes place at the Genting Arena in Birmingham on December 16.

The Mercedes star, back in action at this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix a fortnight after securing his fifth world title, is third favourite with the bookmakers, behind Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas and England captain Harry Kane, to win the public vote.

But when asked if he will attend the annual prize-giving ceremony, Hamilton replied: “It is most unlikely.”

Hamilton, who beat Rory McIlroy to the award in 2014 and was a runner-up in 2007 and 2008, but finished only sixth last year, will instead be at his winter training camp in Colorado.

Sir Mo Farah won the 2017 vote ahead of World Superbike champion, Jonathan Rea, while para-athlete Jonnie Peacock completed an unlikely top three.

“I remember standing up there in 2014 and I was really blown away because the public had called in and supported me,” Hamilton, second fastest in practice at Interlagos on Friday, added. “But receiving an award in front of all those people is not really something I like. I avoid if I can.

“It is awkward for me. Even when I am at the team factory, and in front of all the staff, it is not a comfortable place for me.” it