Frankie Dettori is easily one of the most iconic names when it comes to the world of equestrian. Spanning a lavish career of over three decades, there are few titles that the Italian jockey hasn’t won. With the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards being the talk of the town in the past few days, many fans were certain of Dettori finally being bestowed with the coveted title. However, that wasn’t to be, and Frankie’s fans weren’t happy with the results.

Ahead of the event, Dettori received votes from renowned sports personalities in the country. While many cheered for the veteran jockey, it was ultimately Mary Earps, the soccer goalie who walked home with the 2023 BBC SPOTY award.

Legendary equestrian misses out on the BBC SPOTY award

While the three-time British flat racing Champ didn’t win the award, he didn’t seem to hold any bitter feelings either. In his social media post ahead of the final results, Dettori expressed his gratitude and thanked his fans for giving him all the love throughout his expansive career. “You’ve made this year so special. Sport is nothing without fans. Yes, we might create the action, but you make the moment matter,” wrote the honorary MBE.

1996 was the crowning year of Frankie’s illustrious career. That year, he rode all seven winners on British Festival of Racing Day. While this achievement is enough to make any jockey a legend in the equestrian circuit, it also taught Dettori important results about accepting what comes his way.

In his post, the Italian-British jockey mentioned this as well. “Whatever happens tonight, thank you all for making this such a year to remember,” reads his Instagram post. A man of Dettori’s stature was prepared for whatever happened, and good things he was! As Frankie looks to embark on a new phase of his life, losing out on the BBC SPOTY awards wouldn’t hit him too hard. But his fans had some things to say about the whole affair.

Fans bring allegations of “fixing” the award

Since the results were announced last night, equestrian fans came forward in flocks to speak their minds. Michelle doesn’t see it any other way than Dettori being robbed of deserved glory. “Frankie you are my winner you were robbed,” wrote the fan in the comments of Dettori’s post.

Read more: “Living the Life!”: Frankie Dettori Gets Love From Horse Racing Fans After Introducing a New Adventure

Another fan Emma seemed sad by the results but only had warm words to share for her beloved equestrian rider. “Man you were robbed tonight, but I love you anyway dude!!!. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year“, reads her comment. Claire couldn’t believe the final results, given Dettori’s exploits, “Unbelievable a champion for over 30 years …not just a few should of been yours!” Louise smells of foul play. “Another fix by the BBC I imagine,” wrote Louise.

Watch this story: Stella McCartney Presents Heartfelt Tribute to her equestrian enthusiast family