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."