Gabby Logan, the BBC presenter and former gymnast, has spoken candidly about the tough realities of a sporting career, issuing an important warning to her son Reuben. The 52-year-old, who is set to host coverage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, is under no illusions about the challenges athletes face and wants her son to stay grounded.
Family Sporting Pedigree
Gabby is married to former rugby player Kenny Logan, and the couple have twins, Reuben and Lois. Lois is an up-and-coming show jumper, while Reuben plays professional rugby union for Sale Sharks. Gabby's late father, Terry Yorath, was also a professional footballer for Wales.
Advice for Reuben
Speaking on the Villa4Ever Podcast, Gabby revealed she has told Reuben to keep his eyes open and remain interested in other things beyond sport. She said: 'You've got to have an interest or a hobby, I think, as well, is really important. My son is now full-time rugby player and, you know, he's doing other courses and different things.'
She added: 'I know this is the most important 10 years, he thinks, is right now in his career, but it's still important to keep your eyes open and to be interested in other things.' Jokingly, she said: 'So, of course, I mean, what do I know? I'm just his mum.'
The Hard Realities of Sport
Gabby reflected on the ups and downs of professional sport, noting that 'very few' sportspeople finish their careers exactly when they want to and on their own terms. She explained: 'Being professional at sport is so hard, you know? A lot of people want to do it, don't they? A lot of people want to be experiencing that life. But the reason that very few get there is... it is just tremendously hard work. And it's...you rely on so many different things going right for you at the right time.'
Other News: France Move Idea
In other news, Gabby recently admitted that her family were left shocked when she suggested spending a year in France. Speaking on the Second Act with Ateh Jewel podcast, she said: 'I remember coming down for breakfast once when the kids were about 10 and I said, Guys, I've had this really crazy idea but I think it could be really good. Let's go live in France for a year.' She added: 'The kids can learn French and I'll commute to work. And honestly, you'd have thought that I had suggested we all join a commune in Ukraine or something. Nope, they nearly started crying. Ken said, People can't understand me [in England] anyway, because he's Scottish.'
Gabby's Career
Over her long career, Gabby has presented coverage of major sporting events including the World Cup, FA Cup, Six Nations, Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games. She has also joined the line-up of hosts for Match of the Day alongside Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates following Gary Lineker's departure. Catch Gabby when she presents coverage of Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina on BBC One tonight (June 12), from 7pm to 10.15pm.
