Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand will leave his position as pundit for TNT Sports after 10 years
Rio Ferdinand.
Former Man United defender Rio Ferdinand will leave his role at TNT Sports.
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has announced that he will be leaving his role at TNT Sports to focus on his other business interests. The 46-year-old will step away from the glare of their Premier League coverage in order to apply his energy in other projects, including his 'Rio Ferdinand Presents' YouTube channel.
Ferdinand will officially leave the broadcaster at the end of his contract, with the final game coming in Munich for the Champions League final between Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. After retiring from professional football, the ex-central defender transitioned to punditry, where he was tasked with critiquing the performances of some of his former colleagues.
Despite leaving the high-profile role, the six-time Premier League winner says that he is excited for what the future holds as he looks to spend more time with his family, as well as focusing on his YouTube project and other avenues.
"Since retiring from football, it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching BT Sport and TNT Sports," he said in a statement published on his X account.
"I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen but has been essential to our success.
"As I turn the page to the next chapter, I carry with me countless memories.
"I am excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests.
"I hope to stay connected with you all in different capacities.
"Thank you once again for everything!"
Sources have said that the two parties part ways amicably and on good terms, with the door being kept ajar for future opportunities.
In light of Ferdinand's departure, it's understood that the broadcaster is happy with the on-air team but are looking for the best pundits of the highest calibre.
The Daily Mail reported in March that Ferdinand had decided against renewing his contract with the sports provider, which was due to expire at the end of the season.
At present, TNT Sports boasts a line-up consisting of the likes of Paul Scholes, Robbie Savage, Peter Crouch, Karen Carney, Joe Cole and Ally McCoist for their coverage.