Live

Repeat: OTB Breakfast

05:00 AM-07:00 AM

Repeat: OTB Breakfast
Advertisement
Other Sports

Sue Barker to leave A Question of Sport as major changes are announced to the lineup

Sue Barker is leaving the BBC sports quiz show A Question of Sport after spending 24 years on the...



Sue Barker to leave A Question...
Other Sports

Sue Barker to leave A Question of Sport as major changes are announced to the lineup

Sue Barker is leaving the BBC sports quiz show A Question of Sport after spending 24 years on the programme, as part of a major shake-up at the programme.

Speaking with the BBC, the former professional tennis player said she was "sad to say goodbye" to her "dream job" as host of the long-running sports quiz show.

Barker's departure isn't the only change though because team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell will also be leaving.

Their final series together will be broadcast next year and the new line-up is yet to be announced.

Speaking about her departure, Barker said: "I've absolutely loved my 24 years fronting A Question of Sport, it's been my dream job. But I understand the BBC want to take the show in a new direction and I'm sad to say goodbye."

Barker took over as presenter from commentator David Coleman in 1997.

Ex-England rugby player Dawson, and former England international cricketer Tufnell, have led their teams on the show for 16 and 12 years respectively.

Tufnell wrote on Twitter that it had been a "great part of life" and that he was "going to miss it hugely" as he thanked fans for their messages. Dawson also said he would miss the show "immensely" but admitted he did not know yet how to respond to the news.

A BBC spokeswoman said: "We would like to thank Sue for her enormous contribution as the show's longest-reigning host over the last 24 years, and Matt and Phil for their excellent team captaincy. Together they have ensured A Question of Sport remains a firm favourite with the BBC One audience."

Main image via BBC

Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!

Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.