Ian Wright has announced that he will step down from BBC’s Match of the Day at the end of the season. The former Arsenal and Crystal Palace striker, 60, has provided punditry on the Premier League highlights show for over 25 years.
Wright, who was not present on Saturday’s programme, has explained that he wants to “do a few more different things with my Saturdays”. Over the last few years, the ex-England striker has formed a much-loved trio with presenter Gary Lineker and fellow pundit Alan Shearer.
In an emotional statement on social media platform X, Wright revealed his reasons for stepping down from Match of the Day. He explained: “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.
“I feel very privileged to have had such an incredible run on the most iconic football show in the world.
“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 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. This decision has been coming for a while, maybe my birthday earlier this year fast-tracked it a little, but ultimately it’s time to do a few more different things with my Saturdays.
“I’m really looking forward to my last months on the show and covering what will hopefully be an amazing Premier League title race.”
Philip Bernie, head of BBC Sport content, paid tribute to Wright. He said: “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.”
Wright began his professional career with Palace in 1985, scoring 118 goals for the Eagles including two in the 1990 FA Cup final. In September 1991, he joined Arsenal for £2.5m and went on to become the Gunners’ all-time top scorer with 185 strikes – a record later broken by Thierry Henry.
Greenwich-born Wright earned 33 caps for England and scored eight goals for his country. He stepped into punditry after spells with West Ham, Celtic and Burnley. He has been a mainstay on the BBC for over two decades and has also worked for ITV, covering England matches and international tournaments.
