BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay has jokingly declared he has been "banned" from discussing American football on air, following his enthusiastic celebration of British coach Aden Durde's historic Super Bowl triumph. The light-hearted admission came during Kay's morning show, where he shared his excitement about Durde becoming the first overseas coach to win the prestigious NFL championship.
A Historic Victory for British Coaching
Aden Durde, the Middlesex-born defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, made sporting history on Sunday night by guiding his team to a convincing 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots. This landmark achievement represents the first time an international coach has secured a Super Bowl title, marking a significant milestone for British talent in American football.
Dominant Defensive Performance
The Seahawks' defence delivered an outstanding performance that proved decisive in the championship game. Their defensive unit registered six sacks, forced three turnovers, and even added a defensive touchdown to seal the comprehensive victory. This dominant display on one of sport's biggest global stages has been widely praised across the United Kingdom's sporting community.
Kay's Enthusiastic Reaction
Speaking on his BBC Radio 2 programme, Vernon Kay expressed his genuine excitement about Durde's achievement. "I'm feeling on top of the world — no, seriously, I really do feel on top of the world," Kay declared. "I think anyone who's had any interaction with Aden will be proud as punch that he has won the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks. It's just an amazing sporting achievement."
The 51-year-old presenter revealed he watched the championship game with members of the London Warriors American Football Club, where Durde has coached many players throughout their careers. Kay's personal connection to the sport runs deep — he joined the London Warriors as a defensive back in 2011 after a period away from American football and remains listed on the club's leadership board as of 2026.
The "Ban" That Sparked Laughter
In a humorous moment that delighted listeners, Kay explained his predicament regarding further discussion of the topic. "Now, I've been banned," he announced with evident amusement. "I've had my three links talking about American football, and Phil's got the gaffa tape ready. If I mention it again, he's going to put it over my mouth. Then we're going to hand over to Janice Janine, who will be the host for the rest of this morning."
Durde's Reflections on Success
Aden Durde, who has steadily built an impressive reputation within NFL coaching ranks, described the Super Bowl victory as the result of meticulous preparation and exceptional teamwork. "It is amazing, but I won't say this is something I could never have dreamed of," Durde reflected. "You have to aim high. We put a plan together and the guys executed at an elite level. I'm very grateful. A lot of people sacrificed a lot for me to be sitting here, but you don't see that."
Inspiration for Future Generations
Durde's remarkable journey from grassroots football in the United Kingdom to the pinnacle of American professional sport has been hailed as a landmark moment for British coaching talent. Many within the sport believe his unprecedented success could inspire more players and coaches from overseas to pursue opportunities in the NFL, potentially opening new pathways for international talent in America's most popular sporting league.
The combination of Durde's historic achievement and Kay's humorous on-air ban has created a memorable moment in British broadcasting, blending sporting triumph with lighthearted entertainment in a way that has resonated with audiences across the country.
