Jeff Stelling Joins New Role After Leaving Sky Sports Following Tense Call
Jeff Stelling has embarked on a new chapter in his broadcasting career after leaving Sky Sports. He has accepted the role of brand ambassador for OLBG, allowing him the flexibility to address various topics. This opportunity marks a significant change following his tenure presenting Sky Sports Soccer Saturday, which lasted over two decades.
New Role at OLBG
Stelling’s new position comes with the exciting prospect of launching a podcast that features renowned personalities from the sports world. On this new endeavor, he expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining OLBG, and am excited about how we can develop this new podcast series.” He plans to invite a diverse array of guests, promising engaging discussions and entertaining stories.
Departure from Sky Sports
After concluding the 2022/23 season, Stelling chose to part ways with Sky Sports. He cited that his opinions were often overlooked during his time at the network. In an interview with The Guardian, he revealed his struggles, saying, “Every week I was fighting a battle. I got tired of fighting and it was making me ill.” Eventually, he decided to approach management about his health concerns.
Controversial Decisions at Soccer Saturday
Stelling was particularly troubled by the dismissals of fellow presenters Matt Le Tissier, Charlie Nicholas, and Phil Thompson from Soccer Saturday. He expressed his disbelief in his memoir ‘Saturday Afternoon Fever,’ comparing the situation to a major football team losing key players right before the season starts. He stated, “How can it be the right time?” highlighting his shock at the decisions made by management.
Reflections on His Career
Throughout his career, Stelling has been a staple in sports broadcasting since the late 1970s. His transition to OLBG marks an exciting new phase where he can more freely discuss topics important to sports fans. As he prepares for this new podcast, listeners can expect a blend of humor and serious discussions.
- New role: Brand ambassador for OLBG
- Podcast launch: Featuring sports personalities
- Departure: Left Sky Sports after the 2022/23 season
- Concerns: Felt unconsidered opinions at Sky Sports
- Dismissals: Controversy over three Soccer Saturday presenter layoffs
