New MOTD hosts share remarks made by Gary Lineker following their job acquisition
New Hosts Take Over Match of the Day
After a controversially eventful tenure, Gary Lineker has stepped down from his role as the host of Match of the Day. The new presenting team, consisting of Kelly Cates, Gabby Logan, and Mark Chapman, will take over the reins starting this weekend.
The announcement of the new team was made in January, with the trio keeping their appointment a secret, even from football legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, Gabby Logan's father. Kelly Cates, who will be hosting the Saturday edition, was told about the possibility over a lunch, while Gabby was informed via a text message.
Kelly Cates, who is known for her work covering major sporting events for the BBC since 2007 and hosting Match of the Day 2 on Sunday nights since 2013, expressed her surprise at the level of interest in the role. She stated that she doesn't think she's ever really weighed in on anything that isn't either about football or something quite silly on social media.
Gabby Logan, who has sporadically hosted MOTD and covered major sporting events for the BBC since 2007, believes that in many weeks, Match Of The Day 2 has been a stronger line-up. She has been a popular choice among fans and industry insiders alike.
The new presenting team will not drastically change the format of the show. The BBC One's flagship football show is not expected to change much, with the focus remaining on providing comprehensive highlights of the weekend's football action.
The change in host comes after Gary Lineker's departure from the Beeb in May over an antisemitism row. Lineker shared a video online containing a rat emoji, which was considered an anti-Jewish slur. He later denied knowing that the video contained an anti-Jewish slur and said it was a "genuine mistake."
Match of the Day has a long and storied history, having been on air since 1964. In 2015, the show won a Guinness World Record for being the longest-running football TV show. The European footie highlights version will be called Match Of The Day: Champions League.
With 33 million football fans tuning into the MOTD over the season, the new presenting team has big shoes to fill. However, with their extensive experience and passion for football, they are well-equipped to continue the legacy of this iconic British institution.
The new presenting team, consisting of Kelly Cates, Gabby Logan, and Mark Chapman, will entertain football enthusiasts starting this weekend, as they take over the hosting duties for Match of the Day, known for its comprehensive highlights of various sports, including football.
With Gabby Logan's experience in covering major sporting events for the BBC since 2007 and Kelly Cates' work hosting Match of the Day 2 on Sunday nights since 2013, the upcoming sports segment on Match Of The Day: Champions League promises to maintain the show's legacy as an iconic British institution.
