What do you call a person or animal thought to be the most likely winner of a game or sport?

A favorite.

A person or animal thought to be the most likely winner of a game or sport is called a "favorite" or a "top contender."

The term used to describe a person or animal deemed to be the most likely winner of a game or sport is "favorite" or "favourite." This is determined based on various factors such as past performance, skill level, rankings, and expert opinions. If you are looking for the favorite of a specific game or sport, you can find this information by following these steps:

1. Identify the game or sport: Determine which game or sport you are interested in, as favorites can vary depending on the specific event.

2. Research: Check sports or game-related websites, news outlets, or official rankings to find information on current favorites. These sources often provide rankings, statistics, and expert predictions to identify the most likely winners.

3. Review past performance: Analyze the results of previous games or events to see if there are consistent winners or high-performing individuals or teams. This historical data can contribute to determining the favorite.

4. Consider expert opinions: Read or watch analysis from sports commentators, journalists, or experts who specialize in the game or sport you are interested in. Their insights and expertise can help you identify the favorite based on their evaluation of the participants' skills and performances.

5. Check betting odds: If you are interested in the favorite from a betting perspective, check bookmakers or online betting platforms for their odds. Bookmakers assign odds based on their assessment of the participants' chances of winning. The lower the odds, the higher the likelihood that the participant is considered the favorite.

Remember, the status of "favorite" can change over time as new information becomes available, or as events unfold, so it's essential to stay updated with the latest news and developments in the game or sport you are following.