Grapevine: Button on BBC award shortlist

The Honda Racing driver, who captured his maiden victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix this year, has made it onto the final list of 10 following a combination of a public vote and the verdict of leading experts from the BBC and national newspapers.

The last Formula One driver to win it was Damon Hill, who took the award after his 1996 championship success. He also won it in 1994.

Other former motor racing winners include Nigel Mansell in 1986 and 1992, Jackie Stewart in 1973, Stirling Moss in 1961 and John Surtees in 1959.

This year's contest is viewed as one of the closest for years. Equestrian star Zara Phillips, golfer Darren Clarke, tennis player Andy Murray, boxer Joe Calzaghe and Ricky Hatton, cyclist Nicole Cooke, cricketer Monty Panesar, gymnast Beth Tweddle, and darts champion Phil Taylor are also on the list. No footballers or rugby players were chosen.

The decision as to who wins will be made by a public vote during the BBC Sports Personality of the Year show on Sunday night.

Clarke is the current bookies favourite, having helped the European Ryder Cup team to victory earlier this year just weeks after the death of his wife Heather.