The BBC has announced it will take Football Focus off air this summer, ending the Saturday lunchtime programme's 52-year run. The national broadcaster said the decision followed “extensive consideration” and reflects changing fan habits, with the show having been overshadowed by digital clips and livestreams.
Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, denied the move was cost-cutting, despite the corporation planning to cut one in 10 jobs over two years. He stated the decision was made before last week's wider savings announcement, citing “the continued shift in how audiences engage with football”.
Presenter Alex Scott, who currently hosts the show, described the buildup as difficult due to expected social media backlash. In an Instagram video, she said: “It has felt heavy, and at times it has filled me with so much anxiety and dread because of the toxic side of social media.” She added it was “the right time” for the show to end.
To offset Football Focus's demise, the BBC will increase digital content, including new sports shows for YouTube as part of a deal with the platform. Replacing the TV slot will be The Football Interview, a series led by Kelly Somers, while Final Score with Jason Mohammad will start earlier at 3.45pm on Saturdays. Former presenter Bob Wilson criticised the decision, calling it “crazy” to replace the show with interview content.
