Rio Ferdinand to Leave TNT Sports After Champions League Final
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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand will be hanging up his microphone at TNT Sports this Saturday, having commentated on his last Champions League final in Munich. The decision to step down was a personal one, made after a decade-long stint with the broadcaster.
According to The Express, Ferdinand cited a desire to dedicate more time to his family, following extensive travel for Premier League coverage with BT Sport and TNT. The former England defender expressed his gratitude to TNT Sports, stating that it has been a “privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sport and TNT Sports.”
In a social media announcement, Ferdinand said: “I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT sports after the Champions League final. Since retiring from football it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sport and TNT Sports.” He also acknowledged the support of the team behind the scenes, saying: “I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes whose hard work often goes unseen but has been essential to our success.”
Ferdinand’s departure marks a significant loss for TNT, which may prompt them to seek new talent. The Express reports that Gareth Bale recently impressed during his Europa League final analysis, potentially putting him in line for a role at TNT. Insiders suggest that Ferdinand’s relationship with TNT Sports remains strong, and with the channel acquiring FA Cup rights next season, there’s potential for him to return as a special guest.
This shake-up follows Gary Lineker’s farewell Match of the Day appearance last Sunday. Ferdinand expressed his excitement for the future, saying: “For a football fan like me it’s been a dream come true as I turn the page to the next chapter I carry with me countless memories. I’m excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests.”
As Ferdinand moves on, he will focus on his management agency New Era and his growing production company, known for creating podcasts and interviews. The Express reports that Ferdinand stated: “I know I look forward to following [TNT Sports’] progress and the exciting future that lies ahead. Lastly I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support. They have supported me to travel all over Europe following the best players and watching the best matches.”
Ferdinand concluded by saying: “I hope to stay connected with all of you in different capacities. Thank you once again for everything.” The news of his departure has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many taking to social media to pay tribute to his work at TNT Sports.
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