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Bookies tip champion jockey McCoy for knighthood

AP is favourite for Sir McCoy accolade next week
AP is favourite for Sir McCoy accolade next week AP is favourite for Sir McCoy accolade next week

CHAMPION jockey Tony McCoy is tipped to be awarded a knighthood at the British new year's honours next week, according to reports.

McCoy (41) is a bookies' favourite to land the accolade and a friend has fuelled further speculation by paying tribute to his achievements.

The friend told a British newspaper: "He has made an incredible contribution to racing and delighted millions."

"It is only right that he should be knighted."

The 20-time champion, from Moneyglass, Co Antrim, who retired earlier this year, was last week presented with a lifetime achievement award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony.

Throughout his two-decade career, he rode 4,300 winners including at the Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Accepting his most recent award, he said: "To any young people watching tonight's show - all that I can say is make the sacrifices because it is worth it."