Mark Chapman has today confirmed himself as the new host of the show, insisting there is absolutely no competition between Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan.
While the plan was widely anticipated, there were initial suggestions that Chapman was not keen on sharing the script and wanted it to be a solo gig.
However, the BBC has today announced the widely anticipated line-up from Gary Lineker, who has been the sole host for the past 25 years, for the start of the Premier League season next August.
New team for next season. ✍️
Kelly Cates We are delighted to announce that Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will share the Match of the Day duties from 2025-26.#MOTD #BBCF football #KellyCates #MarkChapman #GabbyLogan pic.twitter.com/r8hU5Owm8b
— Matches of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 15 2025
Not just Saturday night duties.
In addition to the top Saturday night game; They will share Match of the Day 2 duties and Champions League highlights on Wednesday night.
Chapman, who has presented a number of shows on MOTD2 and BBC 5 Live for many years, said: “There's something quite gratifying about getting this opportunity for all three of us to be given the same age-level opportunity that we've worked together for so many years. Three friends together.
“There is absolutely no competition between the three of us.
“Kelly and I have been doing shows together for the past 20 years and we still do radio shows together on 5 Live.
“But working with two presenters who are team players, we want the best for the show, the people who run the show and the people who watch it.”
#BBCF football #MOTD pic.twitter.com/9K59gFBCUy
— Matches of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 15 2025
Cates to continue working at Sky Sports
Cates, daughter of ex-Liverpool player and manager Kenny Dalglish, will retain her role at Sky Sports and take up the new opportunity.
She said: “When I sat in that chair and the theme music started, I knew it was going to be an incredible moment. I've worked with a lot of pundits before and they're all great, so I'm looking forward to getting started.
“I've known Gabby and Mark well over the years, so to be able to embrace the digital side of everything, it feels like a really complete football package for the fans, and that's exciting.”
“It's always a real moment (sitting in the chair) because it has such history,” Logan said. It's still very relevant to a lot of people and still talked about in a landscape where TV has changed so much.
“We have a huge responsibility to ensure that we continue to evolve while at the same time respecting the traditions of Match of the Day. People want to see goals; They want to see the events. Everyone wants to see the talking moments. So if we can think about it, the main thing is football.”
Gary Kay-Jelski did an exceptional job.
Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC Director of Sport, said: “We know viewers will love having this incredible trio of broadcasters and journalists at the heart of our football coverage next season.
“What they do is brilliant and I'm sure MOTD viewers will be well taken care of with their expert analysis of football talking points.
“Gary has done a fantastic job on Match of the Day over the last 25 years and he is sorely missed and we all still enjoy watching him watch some of football's greatest competitions.
“Voice for the 2025-26 season outside of Match of the Day; Great new shows lined up for video and digital I've got some buzz and surprises and I'm looking forward to sharing them all later this year.
“It's an exciting time for BBC sports journalists.”