Alex Scott has insisted she was planning to leave Football Focus even before the BBC decided to cancel the iconic football programme, as she broke her silence with a lengthy Instagram statement on Thursday. The BBC announced that the show, a Saturday lunchtime staple since 1974, will be axed after 52 years at the end of the current season.
Scott's Statement on Social Media
Scott, who took over as host from Dan Walker in 2021, wrote on Instagram: 'After 52 years on air, Football Focus is coming to an end. To have been part of it has been incredibly special, and I'm so grateful and proud of the eight years I've been involved, including the five years I've had the honour of presenting it.' She added: 'I always knew this would be my last season on the show, which the BBC were aware of too. My intention was to move quietly into the next chapter, but sometimes things change.'
Declining Ratings and Criticism
The show has faced long-running accusations of becoming too 'woke' and frivolous, with viewing figures dwindling in recent years. Pre-pandemic averages stood at 957,000, but by the 2022-23 season, numbers had dropped to 687,000. Scott acknowledged the changing media landscape: 'When this show began, social media wasn't a driving force, podcasts didn't exist, and there was no instant access to information. Now, by the time we go on air, you've already seen it, debated it, and lived it across so many platforms. That shift has changed the whole industry.'
Support from BBC Sport Chief
BBC Sport chief Alex Kay-Jelski defended Scott, calling her 'one of our finest presenters' and confirming she will remain at the heart of BBC sports output, including the Men's World Cup and Women's World Cup in 2027. He also revealed a new project with Scott is in development.
Mixed Reactions and Criticism
Scott's tenure has received mixed reactions, with some social media users calling her 'the death knell' of the show. Former pundit Mark Lawrenson argued the BBC is 'top of the woke league,' while Simon Jordan described the programme as 'too smug, comfortable and pally-pally.' Scott addressed the toxicity: 'The lead-up to this announcement has felt heavy, and at times it has filled me with anxiety and dread because of the toxicity that can come with social media.'
Dan Walker's Reaction
Scott's predecessor, Dan Walker, expressed sadness at the news, tweeting: 'Really sad to hear about the end of Football Focus. I loved that show growing up... It was such a privilege to sit in the chair for 12 years.' He added: 'The football landscape is constantly changing and it's disappointing that there isn't space for a show that has meant so much to so many people.'
Future of BBC Football Coverage
The BBC plans to invest in digital output and content across platforms, with 'fresh formats, big personalities and more frequent, always-on content tailored for digital audiences.' Scott concluded: 'Shows come and go, but what Football Focus has meant to people will stay forever. Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey so far and I'm excited for a massive summer of sport!'
