BBC launch reality show days after Gary Lineker's Match of the Day axe
BBC has kicked off a quest for a new football pundit to front a reality TV show. The network is rolling out a competitively spirited series targeting the approach of Women's Euro 2025, Radio 1 is set to broadcast the tournament as well.
The successful contestant will have the opportunity to create digital content for BBC Sport and also feature across various platforms including the likes of Football Focus and BBC Radio 5 Live.
Joining forces with TikTok, BBC Creator Lab is on the lookout for the UK's prime football content producers. They aspire to both promote contenders' talents extensively and provide expert training according to the Mirror.
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Fiona Campbell, controller of youth audience at the BBC, expressed excitement about the initiative: "This is our biggest creator opportunity to date. A chance to work with the BBC's top Sport team and appear on some of the country's biggest football shows as well as to appear on Radio 1 and a digital series. We cannot wait to uncover and collaborate with the most exciting football creators in the UK."
Adding to the enthusiasm, Director of BBC Sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, encouraged hopefuls: "There can't be many better jobs than working with the BBC's football team, so if you think you know the game better than anyone, get applying. This could change your life."
Following the news that footballing legend Gary Lineker will be hanging up his presenting boots as host of Match of the Day after this season, the show has opened its doors to applications.
Lineker, the programmes longest-standing presenter, isn't leaving the BBC entirely, as he's set to continue with the corporation until the end of the 2026 World Cup.
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Reports indicate a potential refresh for the iconic football show, with digital upgrades in mind. Editor Alex Kay-Jelski is said to be eyeing Roman Kemp to attract a younger audience.
Rumours swirl regarding Lineker's successor on the show, and it seems Mark Chapman is in the running to grab the presenter baton. This comes as Lineker prepares to depart amid new arrangements with the Premier League, allowing the BBC to broadcast matches earlier than their conventional 10.30 pm slot.
Reflecting on his time at the helm, Lineker shared his feelings: "It has been an absolute joy and privilege to present such an iconic show for the BBC, but all things have to come to an end," during The Rest Is Football podcast. He added, "It came at a point where really the BBC and Match Of The Day, they've got the rights for another three years, the cycle starts from next season so it felt like if I just do one more year it would be a bit weird."
Now 63, Lineker related the decision to his football exit strategy, expressing, "I bowed out in my football career when I felt it was the right time. I feel this is now the right time. I think the next contract they're looking to do Match Of The Day slightly differently, so I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm."
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