Mark Cavendish will receive the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement award on Tuesday night, despite being left off the main shortlist for the prestigious prize.
The cycling legend’s omission from the six-person SPOTY shortlist had raised eyebrows, particularly after his record-breaking Tour de France performance in July.
The 39-year-old, who previously won the main SPOTY award in 2011, will become only the second cyclist to receive the special honour after Sir Chris Hoy in 2014.
The award follows Liverpool and Scotland football icon Kenny Dalglish, who was last year’s recipient.
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony will take place on Tuesday night
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Cavendish made history earlier this year by securing his 35th Tour de France stage win, breaking the record previously shared with Eddy Merckx.
The Manxman’s illustrious career includes the 2011 road world title and 17 stage victories in the Giro d’Italia.
He has also claimed three stage wins in the Vuelta a Espana and an Olympic silver medal in the omnium at the 2016 Games.
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Mark Cavendish will receive the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement award on Tuesday night
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“I dreamed of being like my heroes when I was young,” Cavendish said. “That gave me inspiration to train, to compete, to travel.”
“If you can be that name that inspires, then I think that’s an important legacy to leave.”
BBC Sport director Alex Kay-Jelski praised Cavendish’s extraordinary impact on cycling.
“Mark Cavendish has redefined what is possible in the world of cycling,” Kay-Jelski said. “From his medals on the track to his breathtaking Tour de France record, his determination to achieve greatness is nothing short of extraordinary.”
The BBC Sport chief also highlighted Cavendish’s influence beyond sporting achievements.
“Mark has inspired generations of athletes and fans alike through his sporting achievements and openness about his mental health struggles,” he added.
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“His legacy as one of the greatest cyclists of all time makes him a truly deserving winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement award.”
The main SPOTY award shortlist this year features Olympic 800 metres champion Keely Hodgkinson, who is tipped to become the fourth consecutive female winner.
Sir Chris Hoy won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement award back in 2014
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Luke Littler stands as second favourite for the prestigious award.
The remaining nominees include triathlete Alex Yee, cricketer Joe Root, footballer Jude Bellingham and Paralympic champion Sarah Storey.