Why is Jeff Stelling Leaving Sky? Is He Retiring?
by Sona | Updated May 23, 2023
Who is Jeff Stelling?
Jeff Stelling, born on March 18, 1955, is an English television presenter known for his work on various shows. He is currently the host of Gillette Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports and previously hosted coverage of the Champions League from 2011 to 2015. Stelling also had stints as the presenter of the Channel 4 quiz show Countdown from 2009 to 2011 and the ITV game show Alphabetical from 2016 to 2017.
In October 2021, Stelling initially announced his intention to leave Soccer Saturday at the end of the 2021-2022 season. However, on March 28, 2022, Sky Sports revealed that he would be staying on until at least the end of the 2022-2023 season.
Stelling grew up in a council house in Hartlepool and attended Rift House Primary School and West Hartlepool Grammar School. His career in journalism began at the Hartlepool Mail, where he worked as a journalist for four years.
Why is Jeff Stelling Leaving Sky?
Jeff Stelling, the well-known presenter of Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports, has announced his departure from the show after an impressive 25-year tenure. During a live broadcast of Soccer Saturday, the 68-year-old shared his decision with viewers. Jeff Stelling expressed that he had been a part of the Soccer Saturday team at Sky for over 30 years and cherished every moment.
However, he believed that it was now the right time to step away and provide Sky Sports viewers with a break from his enthusiastic outbursts, questionable jokes, and overly exuberant celebrations of Hartlepool United goals. From his perspective, it had been an incredibly enjoyable journey. Initially, Stelling had stated that he would leave Soccer Saturday at the end of the 2021/22 season, but he later confirmed that he would extend his stay for one more season.
In a light-hearted manner, he acknowledged the familiar pattern of his previous announcements. Jeff Stelling humorously commented that it feels like Groundhog Day, referring to the recurring time of year when he consistently announces his departure from Sky Sports and Soccer Saturday.
However, he clarified that this time, it is indeed true. His announcement was met with applause from the panel of guests on the show, acknowledging the significant contribution he has made during his time as the show's host.
Is Jeff Stelling Retiring?
Jeff Stelling has made it clear that he is not retiring despite his departure from Soccer Saturday. The 68-year-old presenter stated that there is still plenty of life left in him and he hopes to continue working. After more than 25 years as the anchor of Soccer Saturday, Stelling announced that he would be leaving the show at the end of the current season.
Last year, he had initially planned to retire but decided to stay on for another year. However, now he is set to step away from Sky Sports after over 30 years with the company. Although he will be leaving Soccer Saturday, there is likely to be significant interest in his services for other roles. Stelling himself has expressed his openness to new opportunities.
On social media, he clarified his stance by stating, "Not retired. Leaving Sky. Still a bit of life in the old boy yet!" Stelling wants to emphasize that his career is not coming to an end and there are still more endeavors ahead for him. In his own words, he affirmed, "[I'm] not retired. Leaving Sky. Still a bit of life in the old boy yet!"
Did Jeff Stelling Leaving Sky?
Jeff Stelling, who joined Sky in 1992, has announced his departure from Soccer Saturday at the end of the current season. For over 25 years, Stelling has been the beloved presenter of the show, becoming an integral part of football culture in the UK. During this weekend's Soccer Saturday broadcast, the 68-year-old shared his decision to step down, marking the end of an era for the popular show.
Stelling's contribution as an award-winning presenter has made Soccer Saturday a cherished fixture for football fans across the country. Gary Hughes, the Sky Sports Director of Football, acknowledged Stelling's remarkable career and his impact on the show. Hughes stated, "After a brilliant 30+ year career at Sky, including over 25 years as the much-loved host of Soccer Saturday, Jeff Stelling is leaving Sky Sports at the end of the current football season."
Stelling's unique broadcasting abilities, combined with his passion for the game, have captivated and inspired football fans everywhere. His presence on Soccer Saturday has made it an essential viewing experience and earned him numerous accolades throughout his tenure.
Jeff Stelling Replacement
Jeff Stelling's departure from Soccer Saturday has initiated discussions about his replacement for the upcoming season. Adam Smith, a presenter for SKY Sports, is reportedly the frontrunner for the role. Last year, he was discreetly interviewed alongside Mark Chapman and Julian Warren and impressed bosses during a screen test.
Known by the nickname "Smithy" and currently hosting The Saturday Social, Smith has garnered support from colleagues who believe he possesses the qualities required for the challenging role. The position of hosting Soccer Saturday demands a solid broadcaster who can think quickly on their feet.
While discussions are ongoing and no final decisions have been made, Smithy's candidacy is receiving strong backing from those involved in the process. The responsibility of stepping into Jeff Stelling's shoes is significant, considering his long-standing tenure as the show's host. Stelling's final appearance in the role is scheduled for May 28, coinciding with the last round of Premier League fixtures for the season.
Why is Jeff Stelling Leaving Sky - FAQs
Jeff Stelling, born on March 18, 1955, is an English television presenter known for his work on various shows.
Jeff Stelling has decided to leave Sky Sports and step down as the host of Soccer Saturday after more than 25 years. He expressed that it is the right time for him to move on and give Sky Sports viewers a break from his enthusiastic style of presenting.
No, Jeff Stelling has stated that he is not retiring. Although he is leaving Sky and Soccer Saturday, he believes there is still more to come in his career and that he will continue working in other ventures.
Adam Smith, a presenter for SKY Sports, is rumored to be the frontrunner to replace Jeff Stelling on Soccer Saturday. While no final decisions have been made, Smithy's candidacy is receiving strong support from colleagues and insiders.
Jeff Stelling's final appearance as the host of Soccer Saturday will be on May 28, coinciding with the last day of the Premier League season.