Over the past decade, BT Sport has made a highly successful venture into European football broadcasting, particularly with the acquisition of UK broadcasting rights to the UEFA Champions League. The decision to wrestle these rights away from Sky Sports has proven to be rewarding, as English clubs have dominated the European football landscape in recent years.
Six out of the last ten Champions League finalists have hailed from England in the past five seasons, a number set to rise to seven out of twelve when Manchester City faces Inter Milan on Saturday night. English clubs have also made their mark in the Europa League, featuring in five finals over the last seven seasons before the 2022/23 campaign. West Ham’s recent victory in the Europa Conference League final only adds to BT Sport’s prosperous run.
However, significant changes are on the horizon for BT Sport, as the brand is set to disappear shortly after the 2023 Champions League final. The BT Group and Warner Bros Discovery have joined forces to rebrand and relaunch the sports broadcaster as TNT Sports.
Newcastle United’s return to European football, with the club making an impressive leap straight back into the Champions League, has fans wondering if the rebranding might also coincide with a shake-up in BT Sport’s presenting, punditry, and commentating personnel.
In a surprising twist, the broadcaster’s widely popular presenter, Jake Humphrey, has decided to step down from his role as the main presenter for BT Sport’s Champions League coverage. Humphrey, known for his staunch defense of Newcastle United and considered an all-around good guy, announced in May 2023 that his final big BT Sport appearance would be the Champions League final between Manchester City and Inter Milan this Saturday.
Jake Humphrey Steps Back from BT Sport, Leaving Questions about Future Lineup
Last month, Jake Humphrey announced his decision to step back from his role at BT Sport, citing ambitions to pursue other projects. Humphrey, a football fan who has enjoyed hosting Premier League matches, FA Cup games, and European finals, expressed excitement for his future endeavors.
As BT Sport transitions to TNT Sports next season, fans wonder how the network will handle its Champions League and European football coverage without Humphrey. Lynsey Hipgrave is expected to remain, but beyond her role, the future of the network’s lineup is uncertain. Observers speculate that major changes must take place to avoid potential chaos.
Since BT Sport acquired the broadcasting rights for European football, fans have questioned the network’s selection of pundits and commentators. Critics have been particularly vocal about Steve McManaman, whose commentary has been described as “sheer agony” and likened to the incessant noise of house and car alarms. Robbie Savage also faces criticism for his commentary style, with some finding it unbearable.
Fans wonder whether BT Sport ever seeks feedback on its presenters and commentators. If so, the consensus on McManaman and Savage would likely be negative. Other commentators, such as Michael Owen, Jermaine Jenas, and Rio Ferdinand, have also faced criticism for their on-air performances.
As BT Sport rebrands and relaunches as TNT Sports, there is an opportunity for significant change. Fans hope the network will reconsider its lineup, potentially restricting McManaman, Savage, Owen, Ferdinand, and Jenas to Europa League and Europa Conference League coverage. However, the network’s plans for its talent roster remain to be seen.
