Horse racing's Tony McCoy set for knighthood in New Year's Honours

Champion jockey Tony McCoy is tipped to be awarded a knighthood at the 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 the Mirror: "He has made an ­incredible contribution to racing and delighted millions."

They added: "It is only right that he should be knighted."

The 20-time champion, 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."