BBC's Sports Personality of the Year has been hit with major backlash from fans after the awards show returned to our screens this week.
The long-running show returned with a bang on Tuesday night (December 17), hosted this year by presenters Claire Balding, Alex Scott and Gabby Wogan.
The ceremy, which honoured sports stars for their outstanding achievements over the last 12 months, was hosted in Salford, once again taking place midweek.
Traditionally, the programme was broadcast on a Sunday evening, but that streak broke when it moved to a Tuesday night back in 2022. The decision was made to avoid a clash with the final of the Qatar World Cup.
Last year saw the decision to continue on a Tuesday evening which was repeated once again this year. It has been suggested this change was made to ensure more stars were able to attend the ceremony.
However, this year has seen nominees Joe Root and Jude Bellingham unable to attend - despite being in the running for the top prize.
Viewers tuning into the show last night wasted no time in airing their grievances online, with many threatening to switch off minutes into the programme.
As the event unfolded, the presenting trio reveiced roars of applause form the audience of fans and famous faces, but many viewers complained about the all-women presenters in the line-up.
Among the backlash, one wrote: "#SPOTY no male presenters? What happened to the politically correct inclusively? Guess it only works one way." As another fumed: "Time to turn over! Used to love this programme its absolutely sh*** now!"
Another slammed: "It wasn't a lot of years ago that I'd never miss a minute of #SPOTY. Now I can't stand to watch a minute of @BBCSport's WOKEy approach. Total c***." As a fouth blasted: "Whatever happened to males sports presenters? #BBC #SPOTY."
Despite the backlash, others supported the broadcasters decision to have all-women presenters including a fan who hit back: "SPOTY began in 1954, first female presenter was, I believe, Sue Barker in 1994 and now, in 2024, we have an all female presenting line up for the first time ever. Maybe you need a lie down."
