Kelly Cates is reportedly set to leave Sky Sports to take over as the new presenter of Match of the Day on the BBC, replacing Gary Lineker. The move is expected to form part of a broader revamp of the iconic football highlights show, which will also see Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan join the presenting team for the next season.
Cates, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished sports broadcasters, is expected to bring her expertise and engaging style to the program. Known for her extensive work on Sky Sports’ Premier League coverage since 2017 and her regular contributions to BBC Radio 5 Live, she is believed to have been identified as the leading candidate to succeed Lineker. Her appointment signals a shift in the BBC’s approach to modernizing the program while retaining its core appeal to football fans.
The departure of Lineker marks the end of an era for Match of the Day. Having hosted the show since 1999, he has become synonymous with the brand, bringing a unique blend of humor, insight, and authority to the role. Lineker has announced that he will step down at the end of the current season and leave the BBC entirely following the 2026 World Cup. Reflecting on the decision, he noted that it was natural for the program to evolve and for new voices to take over as the show adapts to changing audience habits.
The new presenting trio is expected to share hosting duties across Match of the Day and its sister program, Match of the Day 2. This rotating format is likely aimed at diversifying the show’s appeal and offering fresh perspectives each week. The revamped team will be tasked with maintaining the program’s status as a cornerstone of British sports broadcasting while also addressing the challenges posed by shifting viewer behaviors.
In recent years, traditional TV viewing figures have faced significant declines due to the rise of digital platforms and changing consumption patterns among younger audiences. While overall broadcast TV viewership has dropped sharply, sports programming has remained relatively resilient. However, the BBC recognizes the need to innovate in response to the growing popularity of online highlights and social media clips.
The upcoming iteration of Match of the Day is expected to place greater emphasis on digital engagement. A new rights deal for the 2025-26 season will allow the BBC to post goal highlights on its website, providing fans with quicker access to key moments. This move is seen as a response to the increasing prevalence of pirated clips and unofficial highlight compilations shared on platforms like YouTube and Twitter. By integrating official content into its digital ecosystem, the BBC aims to recapture the attention of younger viewers and expand its online reach.
In addition to the digital push, the program is rumored to be exploring a broader editorial direction. Plans may include incorporating more news elements, written content, and in-depth analysis to complement the traditional match highlights. This approach could position Match of the Day as a more comprehensive hub for football coverage, appealing to fans who seek not only entertainment but also deeper insights into the sport.
The decision to bring Cates on board reflects the BBC’s commitment to reinvigorating its flagship football program. Her experience, combined with the complementary strengths of Chapman and Logan, is expected to help the show navigate its transition into a new era. While the loss of Lineker’s iconic presence will undoubtedly be felt, the new team has the opportunity to build on his legacy and redefine what Match of the Day means for a modern audience.
As the BBC prepares for this transformation, the focus will be on balancing innovation with tradition. The program’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with fans of all ages, offering a shared experience that transcends generations. With the right blend of digital integration, fresh perspectives, and engaging content, the revamped Match of the Day has the potential to remain a vital part of the football-watching experience for years to come.
