Rio Ferdinand Announces Departure from TNT Sports
Rio Ferdinand, the former England footballer and popular sports pundit, has declared he will be departing from his role at TNT Sports following the Champions League final on Saturday, marking the end of a significant 12-year tenure with the broadcaster. The 46-year-old retired from professional football in 2015 but has been a prominent voice in sports commentary, initially joining BT Sport—now known as TNT Sports—in 2013, just as he was winding down his playing career at Manchester United.
Reflecting on His Experience
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ferdinand reflected on his experience, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage with fans about the sport he loves. He emphasized the hard work of the behind-the-scenes team that has contributed to his success at TNT Sports. He stated,
“I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the Champions League Final. It has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sport and TNT Sports.”
Future Plans and Expansion of TNT Sports
Ferdinand, who was recently recognized among the leading pundits during TNT Sports’ rebranding in 2023, plans to redirect his efforts towards his podcast, “Rio Ferdinand Presents,” and other business ventures. He noted an upcoming thrilling conclusion to the season, urging fans to focus on what he anticipates will be a memorable European final.
Throughout his time with the broadcaster, Ferdinand has often taken center stage at key matches, though his analysis has not been without controversy, occasionally drawing criticism for a perceived bias towards Manchester United, the club he famously played for, making 455 appearances and claiming six Premier League titles alongside a Champions League trophy in 2008.
TNT Sports is on an expansion trajectory, having recently secured a four-year agreement with the BBC to present the FA Cup, along with comprehensive rights to most European competitions, including matches in the Champions League and Europa League. The sports network is bolstering its offerings with rights to various other events, like cycling, tennis, and winter sports, especially after merging with Eurosport earlier this year.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Ferdinand conveyed optimism for his future, expressing excitement about spending more quality time with family and further pursuing his podcast and business projects. He concluded with a heartfelt note, saying,
“As I turn the page to the next chapter, carry with me countless memories. I hope to stay connected with all of you in different capacities.”
