Rio Ferdinand to leave TNT Sports as Man Utd icon confirms reasons for exit
Rio Ferdinand has confirmed he will leave TNT Sports after a decade with the broadcaster - and this weekend's Champions League final will be his final assignment as a pundit
Rio Ferdinand is stepping down from his job with TNT Sports. The Manchester United legend has announced the Champions League final in Munich on Saturday will be his last after ten years with the broadcaster.
Ferdinand says it his decision and he is parting on good terms but wants to spend more time with his family after years travelling doing Premier League games for BT Sport and now TNT.
Ex-England defender Ferdinand also says 'stepping away' from the hectic schedule will allow him to work with his management firm New Era and his blossoming production company which makes podcasts and interviews.
It is understood that Ferdinand and TNT Sports remain on very good terms and, with the broadcaster set to take over FA Cup rights next season, there may still be opportunities for him to come back as a special guest in the future.
Ferdinand is a huge name and will be a big loss for TNT and they are likely to recruit again. Ex-Real Madrid star Gareth Bale was a big hit after his input in the Europa League final. It has been all change in TV after Gary Lineker presented his final Match of the Day on Sunday.
Ferdinand said in a statement on social media: 'I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT sports after the Champions league final. Since retiring from football it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sport and TNT Sports.
'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. To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday and for now all focus will be on what I think could go down as one of the great European finals.
'The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever. I know I look forward to following its progress and the exciting future that lies ahead. Lastly I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support. They have supported me to travel all over Europe following the best players and watching the best matches.
"For a football fan like me it's been a dream come true as I turn the page to the next chapter I carry with me countless memories. I'm 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 all of you in different capacities. Thank you once again for everything.'
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