BBC Faces Backlash for Not Airing Keely Hodgkinson's World Record Attempt on Main Channels

The Olympic champion's historic 800m indoor record bid will only be available on iPlayer, frustrating fans and athletics insiders.

Keely Hodgkinson, the Olympic 800m gold medalist and BBC Sports Personality of the Year, is set to attempt breaking the longstanding indoor 800m world record on February 15 at the Keely Klassic in Birmingham.
Despite Hodgkinson's widespread popularity and record-breaking potential, the BBC has opted not to broadcast the event on its main channels, instead relegating it to iPlayer and FloSports.
BBC Two will air reruns of the film 'Mr. Malcolm’s List' and the discontinued show 'Flog It!' during the time slot of Hodgkinson's race, sparking criticism from fans and sports commentators.
Athletics insiders argue that showcasing Hodgkinson's race on a main channel could have attracted a broader audience and helped elevate the sport's visibility in the UK.
The BBC defended its decision, stating that iPlayer provides accessibility to a large digital audience, but critics say it undermines the broadcaster's commitment to supporting women’s sports and emerging athletic stars.