Former footballer, Ian Wright has quit his role as a pundit on BBC’s Match of the Day.
Wright will leave the show at the end of this season after enjoying two separate stints as a pundit from 2002 – 08 and 2015 – present, having first made his debut in 1997 whilst he was playing for Arsenal before he hung up his boots in 2000.
The 60 year-old admitted that his decision “had been coming for a while” but he “fast-tracked” his decision after he turned 60 in November.
“Ultimately, it’s time to do a few more different things with my Saturdays,” added Wright as he prepares to be involved in the punditry on Match of the Day 2 tonight (17 December) at 22:30pm GMT.
“After my debut show whilst still a player in 1997 and many more memorable years, I’ll be stepping back from BBC MOTD at the end of this season,” said Wright who was also part of BBC’s coverage of UEFA Women’s Euros in 2022.
“I feel very privileged to have had such an incredible run on the most iconic football show in the world.”
Wright went on to speak about the show’s importance throughout his lifetime as he explained: “Anyone that knows my story knows how much the show has meant to me since I was a young boy.
“MOTD is my Holy Grail. On my first ever show, I told [presenter] Des Lynam, ‘This is my Graceland’. It will always be my Graceland and I will always be watching.”
“I’m stepping back having made great friends and many great memories. I’m really looking forward to my last months on the show and covering what will hopefully be an amazing title race.”
BBC Head of Sport, Philip Bernie paid tribute to Wright for his work as he explained: “Ian has been a wonderful star player on MOTD since his first appearance over 20 years ago. His insight, wit and warmth have richly entertained and informed all those watching him.
“We will miss his unique style and presence when he goes at the end of this season, but we will be sure to give him the send-off he deserves.”