TNT Sports' Premier League and Champions League coverage is bracing for a significant shift this summer. Former Manchester United star, Rio Ferdinand, is reportedly on the verge of parting ways with the broadcaster. According to The Daily Mail, Ferdinand's contract with TNT (formerly BT Sport) is set to expire at the end of this season.
Despite being offered an extension by the broadcaster, 46-year-old ex-England international has yet to sign on the dotted line. As one of TNT Sports' top pundits and often leading voice on football coverage, his departure could leave a considerable void in their broadcasting team. With Ferdinand’s potential exit looming large over TNT sports, speculation about his replacement has begun. One name that has emerged as a possible candidate is Wayne Rooney - Ferdinand's former teammate at Manchester United.
Rooney has recently worked with various broadcasters and could be an ideal fit for this role given his extensive experience both on and off the pitch. However, it remains uncertain whether he would take up such a position considering his managerial ambitions following an unsuccessful spell at Plymouth Argyle which concluded last year.
New venture for Rio?
As for what lies ahead for Rio Ferdinand post-TNT sports era; there are whispers about him switching gears towards American football coverage. His management company recently signed a deal with William Morris Endeavor (WME), who represent several American stars including Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds from their Beverly Hills base.
The popularity of Premier League football in America continues to grow steadily; however big-name pundits have only started making their mark recently. CBS Sports’ Champions League show featuring Kate Scott, Thierry Henry among others received positive feedback while NBC Sports enlisted Gary Neville for select matches this season.
With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, Ferdinand might be looking to tap into this burgeoning market and attract a new audience for the sport in North America.
TNT Sports' current line-up
Currently, TNT Sports boasts an impressive line-up of pundits including Paul Scholes, Robbie Savage, Peter Crouch, Karen Carney among others. However, with Ferdinand's potential departure on the horizon; it remains to be seen how they will fill his shoes and continue their high-quality coverage of Premier League and Champions League football.
Rio Ferdinand's potential exit from TNT sports could mark a significant shift in sports broadcasting both for him personally as well as for the broadcaster. As fans eagerly await official confirmation on these developments; one thing is certain - change is indeed afoot in the world of sports broadcasting.
