Mark Chapman kicked off Wednesday night’s Match of the Day with a playful nod to his newly announced role as one of the show’s future presenters.
“Evening, thought I’d get the practice in…” Chapman quipped at the start of the programme, drawing immediate laughter from pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.
Shearer responded to Chapman’s joke with his own teasing remark: “Haven’t wasted any time, have you?”
The BBC has announced Chapman will share presenting duties with Gabby Logan and Kelly Cates for Match of the Day from the 2025/26 season.
Mark Chapman wasted no time making quips after the news broke that he would replace Gary Lineker at MOTD
BBC
This marks a historic change for the iconic programme, as it will be the first time multiple presenters will jointly lead the show.
The trio will present both Match of the Day and Match of the Day 2, as well as the upcoming Match of the Day Champions League coverage.
The change comes as Gary Lineker steps down after 26 years as the programme’s main host.
While Lineker will no longer present Match of the Day, he will continue to be part of the BBC’s coverage of the men’s FA Cup.
He will also remain involved with the broadcaster’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup.
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BBC Sport’s Director Alex Kay-Jelski expressed enthusiasm for the new lineup, stating: “I know viewers will love these three incredible broadcasters at the heart of our football coverage.
“They’re brilliant at what they do, and fans can expect expert analysis of all the big talking points.”
Kelly Cates, who will continue her Sky Sports role, said: “Sitting in that chair with the iconic theme music will be an incredible moment.”
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Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will replace Gary Lineker as the hosts of MOTD
BBC
Chapman emphasised the collaborative nature of the role, noting: “This isn’t just about us. It’s about the entire team—pundits, analysts, editors, and production staff—working together to deliver comprehensive football coverage for fans.”
The new presenting trio of Chapman, Logan, and Cates will take over Match of the Day from the start of the 2025/26 season.
The change marks the beginning of a new era for the long-running football highlights programme.
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