The BBC has said it will review the voting process of its Sports Personality of the Year Award after a surge in complaints over the all-male list.
Thursday's move came after a group of MPs accused the corporation of "ignoring women's achievements", joining many sportswomen and commentators in voicing their anger.
In the letter to BBC director general Mark Thompson on Wednesday, MPs including Stella Creasy and Jo Swinson wrote: "We are very concerned that, this year, not one single woman has been shortlisted for the public vote". They asked whether the rules could be altered for more gender equal representation.
Despite the review, the BBC insists that the current system is not to blame for the absence of women.
"The current system was introduced in 2006 and at least two women have always previously been shortlisted for the main award," a spokesperson said. "It is too early to say what, if any changes will be made to the process".
Surprise omissions for British sportswomen were world champion winners included Chrissie Wellington for triathalon, Kath Grainger for rowing, and Keri-Anne Payne for swimming. The last female winner was Zara Phillips in 2006.